Every Monday, firstpoint publishes five points about a topic related to life at university. This week, it’s nearly Christmas…

POINT ONE: LAST MINUTE SHOPPING…
There are still a few shopping days left! Why not pop into town and see what you can find? Worcester has a great selection of independent shops as well as the larger chain stores. And don’t forget to pick yourself up a seasonal drink to keep out the cold!

POINT TWO: FIND A FESTIVE ADVENTURE…
From ice-skating, to Christmas trees, not to mention meeting Santa, there are lots of activities available for you to visit. Have a look at Christmas in Worcestershire 2022 where highlights include Winter Glow in Malvern, the Enchanted Garden at Webbs, or the Christmas Tree Festival at Worcester Cathedral.

POINT THREE: TAKE IN A SHOW…
Let’s face it, Christmas isn’t Christmas without a panto! Traditionally, these are usually watched after Christmas day, which means you’ve still got time to book your tickets. Locally, you can find Beauty and the Beast at the Swan Theatre in Worcester, Beauty and the Beast at the Malvern Theatre, or a little further afield, Dick Wittington at the Birmingham Hippodrome.

POINT FOUR: THAT’S A WRAP…
So, you’ve found the perfect gift, but have you mastered the perfect presentation? YouTube and Pinterest, amongst others, have a wealth of hints and tips. You could choose a particular theme or style, or how about thinking sustainably and use brown paper , old newspaper or old maps – with twine?

POINT FIVE: A TIME FOR GIVING…
This is the time of year to think about others and there are lots of ways you can be charitable. A quick search online will give lots of ideas, from donating books to children in care, buying a gift for someone escaping domestic abuse, or if you prefer to keep it local why not provide some Christmas treats to your nearest food bank. If you are staying in Worcester during this time, there is a collection point at the Students’ Union.

firstpoint would like to wish all the students and staff at the University of Worcester a very happy Christmas and peaceful New Year.
We will be closed from 12pm on Friday 23rd December and reopen at 9am on Tuesday 3rd January 2023.
But don’t forget that our wonderful colleagues in Security continue to be available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. You can ring them on 01905 85 5495, email security@worc.ac.uk or visit the Main Reception on St. John’s and City Campus to talk to them in person.