AN ALPACA named Clive was the last thing new students were expecting to see on their first day at Swindon College.

The furry-necked creature was one of a handful of animals featuring in the college’s Freshers’ Fair on Wednesday.

More than 1,200 students have begun further education courses at Swindon College this year – in subjects ranging from hairdressing and mechanics to business and beauty.

Dozens of stalls and attractions were crammed into Swindon College’s hall and lawn, with Wiltshire Police, a circus act and Swindon Carers Centre among those represented on the day.

Jess Shoesmith, student engagement coordinator at Swindon College, said: “Today is really an introduction and welcome to the site and the college. Our goal is to run events where students can meet each other and feel safe around each other.”

Teacher Kate Straddling said: “It’s all about meeting and greeting, getting to know each other. It’s a chance for our students to get to know the college in an informal way. A lot of them are school leavers, so this is all a completely different experience for them.”

An estimated 800 students attended the Freshers Fair, with many of them returning students keen not to miss out on the fun.

Morgan Little, 18, of Cirencester, is going into his third year studying mechanics. “This is my first time at Freshers Fair,” he said.

Second year motor vehicles student Mark Bradford, 17, of Cheney Manor, said of the college: “I like the way the teachers communicate. They understand you.”

First year beauty student Georgia Ward, 16, of Moredon, said: “I like the college. It’s nice – everyone gets along together. It’s a massive family.”

On the grass outside the college, students were cooing over goats, sheep, alpacas and a pony from Dave and Ewe – a mobile petting farm based between Royal Wootton Bassett and Calne.

Farm founder Dave Buscombe said: “I do a lot of therapy work – a lot with schools and care homes. Surprisingly, animals give people confidence. They don’t judge you.”

Beside the animals, circus performer Kirsty Egginton of Pocket Fluff Productions was trying to interest youngsters in her plate spinning act. Kirsty, 22, of Bristol, joked: “They’re a bit cool. But some of the students have been loving it.”

Another Freshers Fair will be run for higher education students at Swindon College later this term.

For more about Swindon College, visit: www.swindon.ac.uk.