The FUSE 2021

Nature’s close-up

Capturing the natural world

Game on

The lowdown on how to level up

Polar expeditions and prosthetic effects

Meet the experts

Concrete Creatives

Exploring the Cornish skate scene

Front cover images Yuruani Glass Frog, Jay wong Sunset at Gylly Beach, David Perry Planetary Pest Control, Nathan Bedford

Photographers Oscar Dryden Hasan Bitirim Vicky Tarrant Andrew Wright Tom Pearce Ellie Latch Jay Wong James Wylie Hedvika Michnova Katie Waddington Martin Hartley Tharsika Arulsothy Wenna Makin Torgeir Rorvik Quique Curbelo Idil Sukan David Snowden Matt Jessop David Perry Katie Waddington Hamish Kale Simon Burt Hannah Wright Alexander Walker Brian Robinson Greg Dennis Martina Brunetti Stefano Castelli WeSUP Falmouth

HELLO! And welcome to The FUSE, a whistle-stop guide to life at Falmouth.

In the following pages you’ll find insight into campus life, the best bits to uncover while you’re here and a snapshot of the vibrant, creative community that makes up our town and university.

There’s so much to squeeze into your time at uni, it’s easy to feel a bit overwhelmed. There’s no right way to do it, everyone’s journey and everyone’s experience is going to be different. The only advice we’d give is come with an open mind, experience the very best of what’s on offer, and seize the opportunities in front of you with both hands.

Flip through these pages to find practical advice on everything from how to get involved in activities, to the best bars to try and the tastiest cheap eats to be had. We’ve even included tips and advice from current students, staff profiles and some of our stunning student work!

We think life here is pretty special. Falmouth consistently ranks as one of the best places to live in the UK and it’s not hard to see why.

Enjoy The FUSE, and if you have any questions before September, or at any time throughout the year, there’s always someone on hand to help.

THE FUSE TEAM

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CONTENTS.

18

Fantastic Falmouth

04

Foodie Falmouth

06

Top 5 cheap eats

07

Top 5 coffee fix

08

Falmouth's vegan delights

09

Staff spotlight: Arctic explorer

10

Capturing nature

12

Top 5 hidden gems

16

Top 5 bars and pubs

17

Journey to Underland

18

Best local beverages

20

Gin-spiration

21

The future of fashion

22

Under the skin of prosthetics

26

Go wild for sea swimming

44

Streaming now

28

Top 5 adrenaline hits

46

Game on

30

Top 5 places to get active

47

All the fun of the festival

32

Your Student Union

48

Top 5 places for live music

34

Find your people

50

Top 5 for arts and theatre

35

Feeling welcome in Falmouth

54

Awesome AMATA

36

Insider information

56

A test of mettle

38

Best student bargains

58

Concrete creatives

40

Find your way with The Compass

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44

Adventures await in

fa n ta s t i c fa l m o u t h

Throughout the ages, Falmouth has been home to adventures, pioneers and explorers. Now it’s your turn.

Events Square University at Falmouth is an experience like no other.

With stunning beaches, quirky cafes, a friendly community and a vibrant underground arts scene, it won’t take long for you to fall in love with Falmouth.

Here are just a few of the places you’ll want to explore:

Events Square is the focal point for many of Falmouth’s festivals (see p. 32), home to the National Maritime Museum Cornwall and a number of restaurants and bars. It comes into its own during festival time when there are often great pop-up bars, live music and street food to enjoy.

Gyllyngvase Beach

The Old High Street

One of the jewels in Falmouth’s crown. ‘Gylly,’ as it’s known by everyone, is a Blue Flag beach with beautiful surrounds and great amenities. The beach is a hub of activity year-round.

There’s Gylly Beach Cafe, sea swimming, stand-up paddleboarding, a bakery, different fitness classes and, of course, sunsets to enjoy with friends.

The Old High Street has undergone a huge renaissance in recent years. Its cluster of cafes, bars and restaurants are among the very best in Cornwall. Try Beacon Coffee for artisan espressos, Stones Bakery for baking brilliance, the Star & Garter for cocktails, and, if you want to get lost in Wonderland, The Chintz is the place for you.

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TO PENRYN NUE AVE NA CAE DRA

PRINCE OF WALES PIER

THE OLD HIGH STREET THE MOOR

WE

ST E

LANE

RN

EVENTS SQUARE

WOOD TE

RR

AC E

FOX ROSEHILL GARDEN

THE DOCKS

PRINCESS PAVILLIONS PENDENNIS CASTLE GYLLYNGVASE BEACH

SWANPOOL NATURE RESERVE

FALMOUTH

SWANPOOL BEACH

The Moor The Moor, in the middle of Falmouth, is the centre of the town and where you’ll find regular buses running up to Penryn Campus. Surrounding the Moor, you have independent cafes like Good Vibes and Espressini nestled next to high street staples like Wetherspoons and Domino’s.

The 111-step Jacob’s Ladder leads off from The Moor and, at the top, you’ll find the pub of the same name – just be careful on the way back down!

Prince of Wales Pier

information on bus routes, places to visit and things to do. It’s also here that you’ll find the ferries to St Mawes, Flushing, Trelissick Garden and even Truro on a high tide.

Princess Pavilion Princess Pavilion is a concert hall hosting big music acts, bands and comedians. Here, you’ll also find the beautiful Gyllyngdune Gardens. The beautiful gardens, which are open dawn to dusk each day, are home to tropical plants, an Edwardian Rose Garden and even a secret grotto!

You can reach the pier by walking straight down from the Moor. It’s home to the visitor information centre which is open year-round and a great resource if you’re looking for

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FOODIE FALMOUTH In years gone by, Falmouth hasn’t had much more to offer than pasties and fish & chips. You can still get the very best of these – try Oggies Cornish Kitchen or Harbour Lights, handily opposite each other – but there’s now so much more on offer too. While there’s the usual collection of national chain restaurants, there’s a whole host of independent places you should try too.

From vibrant coffee shops through to award-winning eateries, we promise you’ll find something to tickle your taste buds. In the following pages we’ll show you the best food and drink to try, our favourite cheap eats in town, student-friendly recipes and much, much more.

“Falmouth is

undergoing a huge foodie revival and quickly establishing itself as one of the goto food destinations in the country.”

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YOUR TOP 5 CHEAP EATS

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Good Vibes Cafe

Habaneros Burritos

You’ll find great food for great prices at the cafes on both campuses. And, with Falmouth’s reputation as a foodies’ hot-spot soaring, you’ll also find fantastic food to treat yourself to throughout the town. Here are some of our favourite places to get good grub without paying top dollar for it:

You’ll find brilliant breakfast, beautiful brunch and lip-smackingly good lunch options at Good Vibes Cafe on The Moor. The prices are great and the cake is even better!

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Harbour Lights @harbourlightsfalmouth If you love fish and chips, you’ll be spoilt for choice in Falmouth. The awardwinning Harbour Lights do great deals all year round and, as an added bonus, you can take your food to The ‘Front – the pub situated beneath them – and eat it with a great view across the harbour.

@goodvibescafefalmouth

@HabanerosBurritoBar Does exactly what it says on the tin!

Started by a group of friends who had a passion for cooking and chillies, Habaneros is your one stop shop for a fresh Mexican fix. The big question is, can you handle the heat of their Naga chilli sauce?

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Five Degrees West Brother’s Pizza @5DegreesWest Five Degrees is a big, friendly pub with inexpensive food. Expect all your pub favourites, from burgers, steaks and sandwiches to tasty desserts. It’s right

by Events Square too, so it’s a great place to grab some food before checking out a band or festival.

Forget Dominos, the real ‘Two for Tuesday’ is at Brother’s Pizza where you get any two of their exceptional wood-fired pizzas for £14. Trust us on this, your Dominos will be a thing of the past.

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YOUR TOP 5 C FFEE FIX There are numerous cafes and coffee shops in Falmouth and Penryn. Whether you’re after a quiet corner to read your latest book, or heading out for a catch up with a friend, you’ll find plenty of spots to choose from. Here are some of our favourites:

1. Beacon Coffee Cornwall’s leading speciality coffee shop isn’t just the place to pick up your favourite blends from around the world, it also serves coffee, cakes, cookies and tarts to eat in or take away.

You’ll find Beacon Coffee on Falmouth’s hight street. @beacon_coffee

2. Espressini Espressini offers speciality coffee and a unique, vibrant brunch menu. With a décor unlike anywhere else, this is a must for any coffee connoisseurs. You'll find Espressini on Killigrew Street, just up from The Moor. @espressini

3. Cavendish Coffee House This is a great place to grab a coffee or a quick bite to eat with friends in the centre of town. They make amazing cakes and have a great selection of vegetarian, vegan and gluten free options. @cavendishcoffeehouse

4. Muddy Beach Muddy Beach café is a little gem on the crossroads between Falmouth and Penryn. Known for its brunches and selection of wines, it also serves locally sourced Origin coffee and a variety of vegan options. If you’re after a charming location, you can’t go wrong with Muddy Beach. @MuddyBeachPenryn

5. Provedore Within walking distance from the Falmouth Campus on Woodlane, Provedore is open for takeaway breakfast and lunch. Its fame comes from the quality of the coffee though and this is a great place for a sophisticated coffee fix. @provedorefalmouth

FALMOUTH'S VEGAN DELIGHTS Falmouth has a great selection of restaurants that cater to vegan diets, featuring dishes bursting with imagination and flavour. Whet your appetite with a look our favourite places, and don’t forget to check out the great vegan options on both Falmouth and Penryn campuses too: NUDE Canteen Offering a range of Hawaiian poke bowls, colourful salads, huge flatbreads and burritos, NUDE Canteen is a feast for the eyes. Everything is made to order, using organic, local produce. You can even get your vegetables freshly shredded right in front of you! @nude.canteen Fal Falafel With hummus and sauces made fresh from Hummus HQ, tasty salads and a secret blend of spices, these falafels can’t be beaten! Not only is Fal Falafel based on The Moor in Falmouth, but it also has a regular pop-up stall on Penryn Campus too.

KinnAsia Situated on the main street, KinnAsia serves a range of sushi plates and fusion Asian dishes, serving classic dishes from Japan, Vietnam, Thailand and Korea. They have a large range of vegan dishes and even offer vegan prawn crackers! @KinnAsia Potager Garden Café If you’re ready to venture further afield, then seek out Potager Garden. Once an abandoned plant nursery, Potager is now a slice of heaven with a café nestled inside one of the converted greenhouses. It serves veggie breakfasts, lunches and homemade cakes, using whatever is in season and in the garden. @potager_garden

@falfalafelcornwall The Natural Store Café The Natural Store has everything you could want, from toiletries and household supplies to wholefoods, fruit and veg, deli items and hard-to-get vegan alternatives. Better still, once you’ve picked up all your vegan essentials, you can head upstairs to the veggie café for their daily choice of soups, salads and sandwiches. @naturalstorefalmouth

ALSO LOOK OUT FOR THE MOUTHWATERING CHICK’N BURGERS FROM SLOTH & SPARROW, THE TASTY VEGAN MASSAMAN CURRY AT PLOY THAI, THE ‘TOFISH’ & CHIPS FROM HARBOUR LIGHTS...HUNGRY YET?!?!

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"I'VE BEEN LUCKY TO VOYAGE AROUND

ANTARCTICA, THE PACIFIC, UP TO THE NORTH POLE ITSELF. WE NEED HEALTHY OCEANS LIKE NEVER BEFORE. ALL OF OUR LIVES DEPEND UPON OUR SHARED WORLD OCEANS." .

STAFF SPOTLIGHT:

ARCTIC EXPLORER DR HUW LEWIS-JONES, ASSOCIATE PROFESSOR OF ENVIRONMENT AND CULTURE We could be a little biased, but we think you’ll agree when we say that we have some of the most fascinating lecturers working at Falmouth. From BAFTA-winning producers to acclaimed novelists, inspirational musicians and polar explorers, our academic staff members have a wealth of industry experience and connections.

Just take a look at Dr Huw Lewis-Jones, Associate Professor of Environment and Culture. He is an environmental historian and expedition leader who joined Falmouth in 2018.

Huw is a storyteller and seafarer, a field naturalist and wilderness guide, an award-winning author and teacher. He has a PhD from the University of Cambridge, directs research projects across the world, and leads voyages to challenging places. He’s a creative adventurer and conservation advocate, exploring new ways of thinking.

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Huw has written multiple best-selling books, which have been published in eighteen languages. He continues to work as an international photo editor, an art director, an academic researcher, sometimes as museum curator, and often as polar bear guard. These days he encourages his students to spend as much time as they can outside and offline.

He doesn’t just teach in lecture halls either. Huw can be found at festivals, on ships, by glaciers and on remote volcanic islands – from the South Pacific to the High Arctic. He likes to navigate boats into the ice, taking people north to see whales and polar bears in the wild, or south, to penguin rookeries, albatross colonies, and yet more ice.

Huw also curates photo exhibitions and has appeared in several BBC documentaries, including BBC4’s Everest Revealed: Imagining the Himalayas, Antarctica Natural Histories of Ice, and the three-part series Wilderness Explored: Arctic, Central Australia, Congo. He has also contributed to BBC 2’s Frank Wild: Surviving Antarctica, Channel 4’s Franklin’s Lost Ships, and ABC’s Captain Cook: Obsession and Discovery.

He has been a Fellow at Harvard University and Curator of both the Scott Polar Research Institute and the National Maritime Museum in London. He won the Leif Erikson Award in 2015 for his advocacy of exploration, photography and wilderness heritage. Most recently, he was Green Visiting Professor at the University of British Columbia in Vancouver.

BOOKS Huw’s books include The Sea Journal, Explorers’ Sketchbooks, Imagining the Arctic, Archipelago, Ocean Portraits, The Lifeboat, The Crossing of Antarctica, In Search of the South Pole, The Conquest of Everest and The Writer’s Map, which picked up multiple prizes including the Stanford Award for Illustrated Book of the Year.

He’s just published a new anthology called Swallowed by a Whale. Commissioned by the British Library and edited by Huw, the collection includes contributions from sixty authors, who share their secrets and insights into their writing lives, including how they started out, their inspirations, methods, wild ideas and daily routines, as well as the pleasure and the pain in achieving their literary goals.

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Sustainability is embedded throughout Falmouth, which not only means using sustainable practices and products, but highlighting issues around conservation, biodiversity and the environment.

CAPTURING NATURE

For students and graduates of the Marine and Natural History Photography BA, this has included telling stories about native Cornish Black Bees, making films in the Galapagos Islands about saving endemic land birds and capturing the flight of blue faced monkeys in David Attenborough’s most recent series ‘Seven Worlds, One Planet’.

Here are just some of the stunning images of nature and wildlife that our students have captured recently:

Ellie Letch, ' Saviour of the Soil'

Jay Wong, 'Yuruani Glass Frog'

Ellie Letch’s image ‘Saviour of the Soil’ celebrates soil, the heart and soul of our planet, at Ballylagan Organic Farm in Ireland. It’s estimated there are 12.8 quadrillion living organisms within the top 8cm of British soil alone.

Jay Wong’s image, ‘Yuruani Glass Frog’ depicts a fragile species that is vulnerable to threats from humans.

Two thirds of all glass frog species are in decline due to deforestation and environmental changes.

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James Wylie, 'White-Legged Snake Millipede' James Wylie uses ultraviolet light to reveal a millipede fluorescing naturally.

Hedvika Michnova, ‘It’s Bean Too Hot’ ‘It’s Bean Too Hot’ by Hedvika Michnova tells the story of coffee farmers whose livelihoods are at stake as they are experiencing prolonged periods of drought, massive rains, and an increase of pests and diseases. With coffee plants being very sensitive to the changing weather, farmers are losing their income and feel helpless for the future.

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STAY SUSTAINABLE Sustainability is a big deal, but we can all make a big difference through the cumulative, small conscientious changes we make in our lives.

Falmouth is an ideal place to make a sustainable start to this new chapter of your life. We've got a high street full of places that will help you shop more sustainably.

GO PLASTIC-FREE Why not try to reduce your plastic use? Head to ‘un_rap’, the local zero-waste shop, to discover how easy it is to cut your plastic use through refilling containers with dry food, swapping-in soap bars and cardboard-packaged deodorant, and grabbing some loose snacks like dried mango. Oh, and the plastic-free peanut butter is a MUST try!

ENVIRONMENTALLY-FRIENDLY FASHION Clothing has a massive carbon footprint, but it’s easy to minimise – how about picking that “new year, new me” outfit from a charity shop? Shopping second-hand is cheaper, fun, and may surprise you in terms of quality.

This is especially so in Falmouth – there’s six charity shops, two vintage outlets, plus, everyone here has style…so there are lots of great finds to be made.

ETHICAL TREATS

Katie Waddington, 'Mosaic vision' Katie Waddington’s vibrant image ‘Mosaic vision’ zooms in on a small section of the compound eye of a blue-bottle fly, Calliphora vomitoria. A fly’s eye is made up of thousands of individual visual receptors called ommatidia, which can be seen up close in this image. By capturing and exhibiting the beautiful patterns that are normally hidden to the naked eye, this artwork serves as an open invitation to reconsider the place of these invaluable insects in our world today.

Being more sustainable doesn’t mean we’re not allowed a treat every now and again! Check out ‘Old Rope’, ‘Secrets Ecotique’, and ‘Finisterre’ for a selection of super sustainable homewares, clothing and gifts.

PLANT-BASED GRUB Switching to a primarily plant-based diet can significantly cut your carbon footprint and helps to improves the sustainability of the food industry. Adopting a more plant-based diet isn’t as hard as it seems, and a good place to start is choosing to eat vegetarian or vegan when you go out for a meal, and Falmouth’s local eateries make it easy to get won-over by these options. Head to page 9 for our top picks.

CARBON NEUTRAL Did you know that this magazine is carbon neutral? We're big on sustainability at Falmouth, so look out for ways we're cutting carbon on campus and how you can help too.

CORNWALL’S 1 TOP 5 HIDDEN GEMS 5 You’ll soon find there’s much more to Cornwall than first meets the eye.

Falmouth itself is full of delights.

However, if you want to explore more of the county (and we highly recommend you do) you’ll discover some truly wonderful places.

When it comes to ‘hidden gems,’ we’ve done the hard work in finding them so you don’t have to.

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KYNANCE COVE

RINSEY COVE

If turquoise waters and a picturesque cove float your boat then you have to visit Kynance Cove. It’s on the Lizard, the UK’s southern-most tip. Great all year round, but you will need a car (or a friend with one!) to get there.

Located between Porthleven and Praa Sands. Rinsey Cove sits at the bottom of cliffs overlooked by the old engine house of Wheal Prosper mine. Accessible at low tide, the footpath is a bit of a climb down but totally worth it.

Perfect for: Unspoilt beauty and coast-path walks.

Perfect for: Taking in the sea air and exploring the Cornish coast.

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THE ORCHARD AT PENRYN CAMPUS

THE HELFORD

THE ROSELAND

A gem that’s hidden in plain sight.

We’re not going to tell you where the orchard is on the campus because half the fun is finding it yourself. It’s more a secret garden than an orchard and you’ll quickly feel like you’ve stepped into a different world once you find it.

Just a few miles from Falmouth, you’ll find the stunning Helford Passage. Explore its seven creeks by kayak, stop off at Helford Passage for a pint in the pub and explore the nearby gardens. Relax in the sub-tropical paradise of Trebah and puzzle your way out of Glendurgan’s magnificent maze!

The Roseland is probably Cornwall’s best place that no one knows about. From the amazing Hidden Hut through to expanses of golden sand, you could get lost for days exploring the Roseland. Get there on the St Mawes Ferry from Falmouth (where you get discounted travel) and then start your adventures.

Perfect for: Getting lost in nature.

Perfect for: Escaping the crowds in good weather and brilliant day trips.

Perfect for: Lazy lunches away from the campus crowds.

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You’re spoilt for choice when it comes to bars and pubs. There’s loads for you to choose from and this is just a selection of some of our favourites: 1

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BEERWOLF BOOKS

THE THIRSTY SCHOLAR

MANGOS

The premise is simple: books and beer. Combining a bookshop and a pub, Beerwolf is great any night (or day!) of the week. Lovely staff, a great selection of drinks and a fab atmosphere combine to make this place unlike anything else.

A Penryn classic, The Thirsty Scholar is a student favourite. A great place for watching sport with a brilliant beer garden to boot. It has a great value food menu serving up top-notch pub grub and always offers a warm welcome to new faces.

Falmouth’s top late-night venue, Mangos, on Church Street in the heart of the town, has everything from rock nights and karaoke through to house and Drum’n’Bass.

@BeerwolfBooks

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@thethirstyscholarpenryn

@mangos_falmouth

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THE FRONT The ‘Front is on Custom House Quay in Falmouth. It’s home to open mic nights, folk sessions and regular quiz nights. Former CAMRA (Campaign For Real Ale) Pub of the Year, The ‘Front always has the finest selection of beer and cider on offer. @TheFrontFalmouth

DOLLY’S TEA ROOM AND WINE BAR Tea room by day and gin palace by night, Dolly’s is the place to go if you love cocktails in teapots, wine in jugs and gin in goldfish bowls. Look out for their programme of events, including live music and gin-tasting evenings. @dollysfalmouth

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journey to the

underland 18\

We caught up with the team behind The Chintz bar and new venue Underland – both situated in the Old Brewery Yard, Falmouth – to see what makes them tick, when to visit and what on Earth made them decide to start a new business in the middle of the pandemic.

You run The Chintz, a hugely successful bar in the Old Brewery Yard – what sets it apart from other venues?

The Chintz evokes the bright and abstract world of Alice in Wonderland, but it’s quite difficult to sum up simply.

Fundamentally, it’s about having fun and not taking anything too seriously. We really wanted to create a place where people would feel as comfortable as they would in their own home - somewhere you could come and hang out on your own and not feel weird or be worried about getting unwanted attention.

How would you describe Underland?

The Underland is the little sister to The Chintz, so we wanted to keep the same ethos across both venues, but The Chintz is more eclectic and off that wall, while Underland is more sophisticated with an other-worldly feel to it.

Plus, Underland is where we’ll be holding live music and performances – we've installed a state-of-the-art sound system, a stage and a late licence, along with an amazing line-up of bands booked to perform.

Why visit?

What has the last year been like?

As a hospitality venue during the pandemic, it’s been pretty difficult. It’s been hard to see how the restrictions have prevented people from doing fun things like dancing or hugging people, but the support from the local community has been immense and people have been really understanding. We can’t wait for the world to get back to normal.

Why not! You might like it, you might not, but you’ll never know if you don’t come along and try it out. We’ve got a whole range of different beers on tap as well as a massive selection of bottles beers and ciders, a sunny courtyard and different band every week. Add in The Chintz bar upstairs – with amazing cocktails, toasties, cheese boards and a roof terrace – there’s something for everyone all in one place.

What’s on?

THE CHINTZ

It is a bit mad to open another venue during a pandemic, but we’d started construction beforehand and we weren’t going to let coronavirus slow us down! It actually worked out pretty well for us, as we were able to work on the bar undisturbed and it gave us a chance to revamp the courtyard and improve the place as a whole.

VIBE: Off the wall, eclectic COME FOR: Drag and disco nights, cocktail tastings, cheese and wine evenings STAY FOR: Cocktails on the roof-top terrace

WHAT TO TRY: Tempting cheese boards and The Chintz’s zesty signature cocktail DONT MISS: The secret rooms @thechintzbar

There are loads of things to look out for this year at Underland.

We’ve got music from all over the country, from Smokey’s King Shufflers – who play Chicago blues – to The Undercover Hippy, who plays super-upbeat folk style music. We’ve also got DJ sets, poetry performances and more. Upstairs in The Chintz, we’ve got everything from drag nights to cheese and wine evenings.

You’ll find something new to discover every night in the yard!

UNDERLAND

You’ve just opened a new venue – Underland – what inspired you to do that in the middle of a pandemic?

VIBE: Sophisticated, with an other-worldly feel COME FOR: Live performances, including bands, DJs and poets STAY FOR: Sunny afternoons and late nights in the courtyard

WHAT TO TRY: Sample some of the many on-tap beers, along with a huge selection of bottled beers and ciders DONT MISS: Stunning murals by local artists

@theunderlandbar

BEST LOCAL BEVER-AGES Cornwall is home to some of the UK’s favourite alcoholic brands, as well as exciting new start-ups and microbreweries. Here are our recommendations:

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KOREV LAGER

TARQUIN' S GIN

@korevlager

@tarquinsgin

This laid-back lager is made from classic hops and Cornish-grown barley malt. The clean, crisp taste is the perfect partner to a beach barbecue or a scenic sunset.

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RATTLER CIDER @rattlercyder Rattler is a fruity, cloudy cider with a bite! Whether you go for the heady taste of Rattler Original, summery Strawberry & Lime, tropical Pineapple or punchy Rattler Pear, each flavour has that crispy zing.

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There’s gin, and then there’s Tarquin’s.

Established in 2012, Tarquin’s has taken the artisan gin world by storm and with flavours like tonka bean and clementine, British blackberry and Cornish crocus, it’s not hard to see why.

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JUBEL BEER @jubelbeer

CAMEL VALLEY @camelvalleyvineyard

Bored of drinking routine lager? Try Jubel Beer, an original, quirky new label offering fresh, super tasty flavour cuts like Elderflower and Peach. Their beers are gluten-free, vegan-friendly and naturally infused, so everyone can enjoy a refreshing brew.

Camel Valley vineyard is the largest in Cornwall and they make brilliant bubbles. Described as “English class in a glass” it’s a fantastic bit of fizz and perfect for celebrations.

Round off your round with an authentic “Yeghes da!”, which means ‘cheers’ (literally good health) in the Cornish language!

Gin-spiration This gin might not be Cornish, but it contains more than a dash of the Falmouth spirit.

Falmouth graduate Holly Challinor has applied the lessons she learnt from her studies to become the Founder & Director of Cheshire Botanicals, a family-run micro distillery in the heart of the Nantwich countryside.

Holly believes that the skills she gained while studying Photography BA(Hons) and Professional Writing MA courses at Falmouth were vital to her success.

She’s put this into use through beautiful photography and carefully crafted imagery throughout her website and social media channels, helping her brand to stand out from the rest.

Holly said, “Without studying at Falmouth, I wouldn’t have learnt some of the key elements of building a brand and marketing a new product.”

Holly perfected Cheshire Botanicals’ first product, Nantwich Gin, during the first lockdown. After six months of recipe trials, research and planning, the company’s debut gin was launched.

The spirit received immediate acclaim, receiving a silver medal in the London Spirits Competition 2021 – a prestigious endorsement in the global spirits industry. This success was quickly followed by the news that Nantwich Gin was named as a finalist in The Gin Guide Awards 2021.

Tastes like: Nantwich Gin is a London dry gin made with the key botanicals of traditional juniper berries, coriander seeds and angelica root, combined with delicate florals such as rose and lavender. Lemon thyme brings a citrus twist to the gin, complimented by punchy cardamom and a lingering finish of pink pepper corns.

Perfect with: Fever Tree Original Tonic and a slice of grapefruit. If you’re feeling adventurous, why not garnish with some garden herbs like rosemary or thyme.

Follow: @cheshirebotanicals

Nantwich Gin Garden cocktail Take a sip of this simple summertime staple: • Nantwich Gin • Fever Tree Elderflower Tonic • Apple Juice • Ice • Cucumber Step 1: Peel your cucumber and muddle it (press it against the side of a glass) to release the flavours.

Step 2: Put the cucumber in a cocktail shaker (or a mason jar with a tight lid) along with a shot or two of Nantwich Gin, a splash of apple juice and plenty of ice.

Step 3: Shake well for 30 seconds, then strain into a martini glass.

Step 4: Top it up with Fever Tree Elderflower Tonic and garnish with cucumber slices.

THE FUTURE OF FASHION Photography team : Vicky Tarrant, Tom Pearce, Tharsika Arulsothy, Wenna Makin and Torgeir Rorvik, BA (Hons) Fashion Photography Let loose on everything from industrial overlockers to ultrasonic welders and hand-dying workshops, our Fashion Design and Sportswear Design students use state-of-the-art equipment to bring their ideas to life. Meet some of the fashion stars of the future and see what inspires their signature looks.

Designer: Hannah Howell, BA(Hons) Sportswear Design LifeCycle (left) “The LifeCycle collection provides functional clothing for professionals so they can feel confident travelling by bike wherever they need to go.

“By utilising fabrics such as 'Halley Stevensons’ waxed cotton, which evolves over time and shows the beauty of ageing through folds and creases, as well as renewable performance fibres like tencel and wool, garment maintenance is not only easy to do, but something to be celebrated.

“The addition of ‘Dashing Tweeds’ Lumatwill reflective tweed also increases the garment’s visibility, which is essential for safe commuter cycling, while allowing the item to remain elegant and suitable for everyday wear.”

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Designer: Zoe Murphy, BA(Hons Fashion Design Juvenescence “My knitwear collection Juvenescence explores experiences in lockdown – working from childhood bedrooms, feelings of nostalgia, reflecting on childhood memories through rose-tinted glasses and the resurgence of home crafting.

“Taking inspiration from a variety of different areas, from home-sewing patterns of the 1970s to extreme 1980s power-dressing, the collection aims to invoke joy felt when reminiscing about more carefree times.

"It does so through a bright colour palette and fun graphic prints, derived from markmaking inspired by childhood memories of being outdoors."

The collection aims to invoke joy felt when reminiscing about more carefree times

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Like Meccano, the shapes were ready to be put together – the limit for design was simply my imagination Designer: Flick Holden, BA(Hons Fashion Design

Meccano inspired “Last summer I unearthed a box of 1930s Meccano that belonged to my civil engineer grandfather. I had a strong sense that this set of perforated shapes contained a rich bank of opportunities and it satisfied my intention to approach the year with a light-hearted, childlike playfulness.

“I jumped into the world of vintage Meccano and, as a result, began to gravitate towards the vision of creating a fashion equivalent of the construction set.

“An exploratory use of the laser cutting machine, combined with extensive draping and the realisation that screws could be used to connect the clothing in place of sewing, underpinned my progress. From enlarged scans of the Meccano set, I designed perforated shapes that took on a life of their own when draped on the body, creating sophisticated sculptural silhouettes that were completely interchangeable. Like Meccano, the shapes were ready to be put together – the limit for design was simply my imagination.”

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Q. How does an aspiring artist get a footing in the small world of special makeup effects?

A. I watched the end credits of BBC shows and wrote to the people that came up on the screen! I’d just write to whichever name came up, "Care of the BBC". And you could actually get things to people like that back in the 1980s!

I received a letter back and the response encouraged me to continue honing my craft and to create a portfolio of work. By the age of 15, I had enough work to take to studios in London.

Two years later, I got my break. Established British makeup artist Christopher Tucker (Elephant Man, Phantom of the Opera) was impressed by my portfolio and gave me two weeks of work experience. After I’d done the work with him, I just thought, I can’t go back to college now! I have to keep doing this.

UNDER THE SKIN OF PROSTHETIC EFFECTS WITH ARTIST

NEILL GORTON

With more than 35 years of experience in the film industry, prosthetic effects artist Neill Gorton has enjoyed a career that's included working on blockbuster projects such as Saving Private Ryan and Doctor Who as well as running the Prosthetic Effects MA at Falmouth.

While back home in Liverpool, I was at a famous comic bookstore called Forbidden Planet when I saw a guy I recognised: Bob Keen (Hell Raiser, Candyman). I accosted him outside the shop and he agreed to view my portfolio at his studio. The following Monday, he took a look at what I’d done and hired me on the spot to work on Waxwork a horror-comedy film.

Q. What led to more work in a profession where jobs were scarce?

A. I took every opportunity I could. I scrabbled about doing physical effects – wetting down streets to make it look like it’d rained, generating wind effects by operating huge fans, that kind of thing. I actually got hired to operate the wind machines purely because my van had a tow bar on the back – the special effects supervisors knew they wouldn’t have to go out and hire a van!

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I knew that these experiences, however obscure, would aid me in the future. This proved to be the case. One of my physical effects co-workers was Steve Begg (Batman Begins, Lara Croft: Tomb Raider, Casino Royale), who went on to strike up a strong working relationship with Gerry Anderson. It wasn’t long before Steve recommended me for the special effects position on Gerry’s new series Space Precinct.

Q. Your career really took off, from there. What have been some of your highlights?

A. At 26, I found myself heading the corpse and animal effects

department for Steven Spielberg’s epic war movie Saving Private Ryan. People say never meet your heroes, which is nonsense.

To be able to watch the way he got his shots, the way he communicated with people – he was the real deal.

Q. And what about some of your favourite moments from working in television?

A. Getting to redesign the iconic Cybermen on Doctor Who

was a real highlight, especially as I have been obsessed with the progreamme since I was a child. I had a really great relationship with writer Russell T Davies (Queer as Folk, Casanova, It’s a Sin).

It would be 1am and we’d be banging doodles back and forth over email – it was a genuine creative process.

Q. With such a wealth of industry experience and a thriving prosthetic effects industry, you must be busier than ever.

What made you decide to teach as well?

A. When I was young, I’d write those letters to the BBC and

someone, somewhere, took the time out of their day to write back to a 14-year-old kid. Now with the courses at Gorton studios in collaboration with Falmouth University, I’ve got the chance to nurture creative talent. There’s nothing better than seeing someone with talent, then seeing that talent grow.

Did you know?

Although Neill teaches on the Prosthetic Effects MA course, Falmouth's approach to sharing skills, resources and experience across different subjects means that you'll have the opportunity to explore a range of exciting disciplines like this and much more.

As a student, you’ll also be able to tune into our Guest Speaker Programme, bringing you fascinating talks from business moguls and sport stars, along with award-winning directors, writers and presenters.

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M A E R T S W O N

G IN

Wilderness, a film written by Falmouth associate professor Neil Fox and crewed almost entirely by students studying both BA and MA Film and Television courses, is now available to stream across major digital platforms.

The film, which follows the fresh romance of jazz fan Alice and touring jazz musician John during an impulsive coastal getaway, was funded by Falmouth’s School of Film & Television using an innovative micro-budget filmmaking model that creates opportunities for students to work on professional projects.

Neil said, “People had an idea of what we might make for that amount of money and that amount of time. When they saw it, they were impressed and realised that it can be something more ambitious than two people sitting in a room.”

Behind director Justin John Doherty’s camera, it was Falmouth students who were pulling many of the strings.

Students worked as camera assistants, production assistants, sound recordists, boom operators and location coordinators amongst other roles.

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Neil said, “Ultimately, the experience for the students was what funded the project. There were more than 30 students involved on the film at various times.

Showing the students how independent films are made, by actually making one, and bringing them on set, is incredibly valuable… there are so many things you can do in a classroom, but there are limitations.

“It’s why we make so many films in the school and why we try to involve students with as many productions as possible. It’s peer learning in a way that is so meaningful.”

As well as involving students heavily in the project, Neil also collaborated with colleagues at Falmouth with specialist skills, including sound technician Jem Mackay and senior lecturer Rosa Mulvaney.

Neil said, “The film is set in the late 60’s, so it became clear that we’d need to mask a lot of modern things like satellite dishes. Rosa acted as the VFX supervisor and put together a team of her students to eliminate modern appliances.”

According to The Guardian, the final result is a film that is "rather lovely, a talky cine-literate portrait of a new relationship set in the 1960s… (that) plays out in absorbing emotional detail."

Students worked as camera assistants, production assistants, boom operators and location coordinators

Keep your eyes peeled for Enys Men Falmouth lecturer and BAFTA-winning director Mark Jenkin is working on his new project Enys Men, following the runaway success of his film Bait.

The film is set in 1973 and it centres on a woman living alone on an imagined island off the coast of Cornwall who is volunteering to observe an extremely rare flower that only grows on land contaminated by an old Cornish tin mine.

As her isolation grows, she starts to believe that the ancient standing stone, which sits at the highest point of the island, is slowly moving towards her cottage. The ecological horror wrestles with the idea of human intervention in the natural world and how very little things can knock things out of balance.

As with Bait, which won the Outstanding Debut for a British Writer, Director or Producer BAFTA, Mark has worked with staff and students at the University throughout the production of the film, so look out for more details.

Watch it now Wilderness is available to download and stream from the Sky Store, Amazon, and Google.

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Falmouth’s Games Academy has been rated as one of the top 30 places worldwide and the top ranked university in the whole of England to study games according to the prestigious Princeton Review. Which means our students know their stuff. Check out their advice on what to play and where to go to level up this year.

Luke Day, Computing for Games BSc (Hons) In a year of intense isolation, many around the world have turned to gaming as an escape. And, while we've had many great releases this year so far, there's many more that may interest you.

Carma Lookout for Carma – an online multiplayer, casual, arcade, vehicle combat game made by second-year Falmouth Games Academy team Glass Nomad Games.

Battle your way to the top of the leaderboard on miniature planets, with a planned release later this summer.

The team behind the game has just 14 members and started development on the game back in October. Upon publicly announcing the game, the team's producer, Harry Donovan, expressed his excitement stating, "It has been so much work to get it to this point, but it is totally worth it!" store.steampowered.com/app/1603990/Carma/

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Subnautica Having been just over three years since its original launch, Subnautica is releasing a sequel named Subnautica: Below Zero, later this month. Whilst the game has been available to play in Early Access for a couple of years, its full release will be available on many platforms, such as PlayStation 4 & 5, Xbox One, and Nintendo Switch. This sequel will submerge you in an all-new, sub-zero expedition in an arctic region of Planet 4546B. In the description of the game, it names several new alien lifeforms, including Titan Holefish, Shadow Leviathan and Pengwings, stating that, "Not all creatures in this strange world are friendly." It's definitely one to follow if you enjoyed the first Subnautica.

Toby Atkinson, Game Development: Programming BSc (Hons) At Falmouth you'll never find a shortage of games to play and you will never run out of people willing to make new mates and play together. In the Games Academy, teams are always looking for people keen to play their new products, having their game play tested helps greatly with the game’s creation, meaning at Falmouth there’s hundreds of free student games you're able to play.

subnautica.com

Legend of Zelda: Skyward Sword HD (main image) Another game that you should be looking out for this year is The Legend of Zelda: Skyward Sword HD, which is coming out in July. This name might sound familiar to you if you're a fan of Zelda, as it originally launched on the Nintendo Wii back in 2011. What's interesting with this new Nintendo Switch release is that, unlike Breath of the Wild, the graphics are much like the original ones that many gamers will know and love. Another feature I found intriguing is the ingenuity of the controls – you’re able to control Link's weapons by utilising the motion sensors on the joy-con controllers. Not only this, but if you're playing on a Nintendo Switch Lite, then the direction that you tilt the right thumbstick will be the direction that Link swings his weapon. Eiji Aonuma, the producer of the game, ended the release saying that he hopes "That people who played the original game on Wii, and those playing it for the first time, will enjoy discovering the origins of The Legend of Zelda." nintendo.co.uk

Tabletop games If you’re looking to make new friends and discover new tabletop games, or if you’re a veteran of wargames and RPGS then the student-led Table Top Gaming Society is perfect for any new student. They run games like Dungeons & Dragons, Warhammer 40k and Magic the Gathering every week as well as any other board games brought along. When I came to Falmouth I had no experience in Warhammer or D&D, but the Table Top Gaming Society teaches completely new players. thesu.org.uk/organisation/tabletop/ Plantetary Pest Control (bottom image) A good example of a multiplayer co-op student made game from last year is Planetary Pest Control. Created all in one year by Games Academy students you’re able to play it co-op with a friend on controllers by downloading free here. dangerzone-ga.itch.io/ppc

Video Gaming Society If you’re looking for a place to get a team for more competitive games, or just to be able to join in some casual games at home then the Video Gaming Society has what you are after.

They are involved in Student Esports ranging from Counter Strike to Rainbow Six, as well as running weekly LAN events and Fighting game tournaments on Tournament Tuesday. If you’d rather just chill while making new friends, you can join in on a Minecraft or Smash play session on a Casual Friday. thesu.org.uk/organisation/vgsoc/

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ALL THE OF THE FESTIVAL

Where: Watergate Bay Instagram: @boardmasters

Cornwall is stuffed full of festivals, from traditional celebrations and fabulous food to big names and even bigger nights. There are events throughout the year, across the whole of Cornwall, and Falmouth has its very own scene, which is getting bigger and better each year.

Here’s a taste of the festivals Cornwall has to offer.

Boardmasters takes place on the cliffs at Watergate Bay outside of Newquay. Sun (sometimes), surf, music, and a celebration of beach life combine for one of the country’s biggest festivals.

Sunkissed sunsets With miles and miles of sandy shores, it’s no surprise that Cornwall hosts several festivals on the beach.

Check out festivals like Tunes in the Dunes in Perranporth and the Sundowner Sessions at Lusty Glaze, Newquay for picturesque views and a great atmosphere.

Food, glorious food Whether you’re a self-confessed foodie, or simply like free samples, Cornwall boasts a cornucopia of food festivals. Seek out events in Porthleven, Padstow and Newquay for some of the most delicious food around!

Big and bold Established in 2007, Boardmasters is Cornwall’s most famous festival. Attracting more than 50,000 people each year.

Good vibes Immerse yourself in vibrant cuisine, energising workshops and world music at Tropical Pressure, back for 2022. Held in the beautiful grounds of Mount Pleasant Eco-Park overlooking Porthtowan, this is the ultimate feel-good festival.

One-offs For a festival experience like no other, head to the Eden Sessions and watch your favourite acts against the backdrop of Eden’s iconic Biomes. Playing host to pop royalty such as Diana Ross and Kylie. Scheduled for 2021 are the likes of Ben Howard, IDLES and The Script.

Hidden wonders You never know what could be hiding in the next valley! Healey’s Cyder Farm in Pehallow hosts the Little Orchard Cider & Music Festival, while The Wyldes – a wooded valley hidden in the very north of Cornwall is where you’ll not only find Leopallooza Festival, but a range of one-day events too.

TOP 5 PLACES FOR LIVE MUSIC

Live music is everywhere in Cornwall*. From the range of different festivals through to small, intimate venues, there’s something for everyone. Here’s our pick of where to get your groove on: THE CORNISH BANK @cornishbank The Cornish Bank is a brand-new venue in Falmouth town centre, including a bar, cafe and a stage. With multiple gigs each week – including performers from across the world, as well as British talent – along with food and art exhibitions in the daytime, there’s something new to see every time you visit.

OLD BAKERY STUDIOS

PRINCESS PAVILION @princesspavilionofficial The Princess Pavilion in Falmouth punches well above its weight when it comes to attracting top musical talents.

In recent years the likes of Ed Sheeran, Kaiser Chiefs, Alt-J, Adam Ant, Frank Turner, Ben Howard, Villagers and Nick Mulvey have all graced the stage here.

THE WATERING HOLE @wateringholecornwall The Watering Hole in Perranporth (located right on the beach) has a fantastic array of live music which ranges from Tom Jones through to dubstep. It’s run by the team behind the Tunes in the Dunes festival and has live music every week.

JACOBS LADDER @jacobsladderfalmouth With live music five nights a week, you’ll find everything from jazz, funk and soul to indie, punk and hip-hop. Situated in the heart of Falmouth this pub is located at the top of the famed 111 Jacobs Ladder Steps – hence its name!

@old.bakery.studios By day, the Old Bakery Studios in Truro are home to a range of creative businesses, including artists, graphic designers and photographers. By night, this quirky old building transforms into a live music, featuring some of the best rock, blues, reggae and ska on the scene.

*Covid restrictions permitting

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ARTS AND THEATRE TOP 5 From one of the country’s leading art galleries through to a theatre unlike any other on the planet, Cornwall is a hotbed for theatre and the arts.

Take a stroll down the high street and you’ll quickly realise that Falmouth has more galleries than your average town. Alongside the traditional seascapes, you’ll find some stunning work from both established and emerging artists.

If theatre is your thing, you’re in the right place, with plays, performances and readings taking place everywhere from industrial spaces to windswept cliffs. From home grown to internationally acclaimed talent - you’ll never be far from an inspiring installation, exhibition or performance.

The Poly at Falmouth Located in the heart of Falmouth, the Poly was initially founded in 1833 ‘to promote the useful and fine arts’. It’s still continuing that ethos today – screening a mix of independent, classic and new films, hosting workshops, talks and live performances, as well as providing a space for art exhibitions.

The Fish Factory The Fish Factory is a multi-function arts space consisting of 22 artist workspaces, a gallery, cafe and a multi-use event space in Penryn. It brings together people of all ages and from all walks of life in a vibrant artistic community. Head to The Fish Factory to see some of the freshest work by local painters, illustrators, mixed media, installation artists, graduates, printers, potters, writers and more.

The Fish Factory, Penryn

The Minack Theatre You may have to find a friend with a car, but a trip to the Minack is absolutely essential. Perched on granite cliffs and overlooking Porthcuro Bay, the Minack is a venue like no other. From The Pirates of Penzance to Proms at The Minack, the venue plays host to a wide variety of concerts and plays, adding an other-worldly dimension to already dramatic performances.

Tate St Ives St Ives has long been a haven for artists, drawn by the special quality of light. The new Tate St Ives opened in June 2017 and is worth the journey. With workshops, talks and exhibitions on all year round from local and international artists, it’s offerings rival the biggest galleries.

Falmouth Art Gallery Take a stroll down the high street and you’ll quickly realise that Falmouth has more galleries than your average town.

While many offer traditional seaside fare, some are worth closer inspection. Falmouth Art Gallery, located in the same building as the public library on The Moor, is probably the best known. It has a collection of more than 2000 works and the exhibitions are constantly changing.

Cornwall is home to some amazing touring theatre companies, including Rogue Theatre, Miracle and Wildworks. Keep your eyes peeled for their latest shows.

AWESOME] AMATA Located in the stunning grounds of the Penryn Campus, AMATA is much more than a learning space. It’s a purpose-built facility and a professional venue that hosts public events, featuring acts from outstanding student performances to inspirational visiting artists, both online and at the venue itself.

With its industry connections and outstanding facilities, AMATA has attracted performances from leading companies such as Tribe Dance Company, Volcano Theatre, comedians Lou Sanders and Brett Goldstein, with concerts from groups and ensembles including Isaac Gracie, Bellatrix and IDER. AMATA has partnered with the Pleasance Theatre Trust to present a Digital Live Stream Showcase at this year’s Edinburgh Festival Fringe!

But it’s much more than just the performances. There’s a special feel to AMATA, it’s a place where creative expression is a way of life, where magic becomes a reality and where dreams are given wings to soar. Seriously, go check it out. You’ll love it if you enjoy anything to do with live performance, such as music, dance, theatre and comedy. And don’t forget to look out for student tickets at hugely discounted prices! If you just want to stop and watch the world go by you can take stock in the AMATA Cafe Bar where they serve luxuriously made hot drinks, delicious cakes, salads, toasted sandwiches and scrumptious soups as well as a range of alcoholic and nonalcoholic beverages.

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AMATA

LIVE AT AMATA

amata.org.uk

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Joseph Toonga Promo ©The Other Richard

Falmouth University’s Academy of Music & Theatre Arts (AMATA) on the Penryn Campus offers an exciting year-round programme of live and online music, theatre, dance and comedy events. Students can purchase a Live@AMATA Pass, which offers subsidised tickets for the programme of professional work throughout the year. amata.org.uk/livepass

A TEST OF METTLE

Falmouth Fine Art BA (Hons) students have won big at this year’s Student Medal Project competition. The British Art Medal Society, which runs the project, receives more than 100 student submissions from universities and art colleges across the country.

Kiki Birtles, 'Inherited'

Amelia Johnson, 'Of Cavities and Hollows'

Kiki’s design is a reflection on the burden of environmental issues. Kiki was awarded the Grand First Prize in the Cast Works category for her design Inherited.

Amelia Johnson picked up The Lunce Prize for Of Cavities and Hollows, Amelia’s medal was designed to address extinction, habit loss and responsibility.

“Younger generations have inherited the problems of the world and have been bound to bear this enormous pressure. On the front of my design there is a person in agony trying to hold up the earth while being simultaneously crushed by it. This imagery is inspired by the Greek mythology of Atlas – the Titan who was condemned to hold up the celestial heavens for eternity after the Titanomachy (War of the Titans). On the flip side, the figure is depicted in a peaceful sleep, curled up around the constellations. However, this only conceals their agony, as they ignore the state of the world instead of addressing the mistakes that have been made.”

“I have used the image of the now extinct Carolina Parakeet and a tree cavity that this species used to nest within, to present the sorrowful story of their absence and nature's loss. The cavity of the tree captivated me as it used to provide shelter and host life, yet now it is empty and hollow. I intended for the medal to be tactile and mirror the human touch that stains the memory of this species, as it was human action that led to their extinction in 1918.”

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THIS WAS A DIFFICULT YEAR. BUT IT HAS BEEN A REMARKABLE YEAR. ALL FIVE JUDGES FELT THAT THE STRENGTH OF THE WORK WAS PHENOMENAL Marcy Leavitt Bourne, Director of the British Art Medal Society

Julie Davenport, 'Motherhood, Threads and Connections'

Caz Holland, 'New Beginnings'

Julie’s winning design was dedicated to her three children who are about to leave home. Her medal, Motherhood, Threads and Connections, was awarded a Merit.

Caz, who had no previous experience of casting, created a Merit-winning personal talisman that symbolises her journey towards mental health.

“The shape of the medal is from a perfect skimming stone, tactile and smooth. This is a reminder of casting out your stone into the unknown to skip across the ocean free.

The cotton threads criss-crossing the stone are a metaphor for paths which will cross and be intertwined.

On the reverse side of the stone is the motif of two elephants touching head-to-head. Elephants are matriarchal animals; wherever they travel there will always be love and a close family bond.”

“On one side of the medal is He’e, who is an octopus taken from a Hawaiian creation myth. In this myth, He’e is the only survivor at the end of the previous universe, who has squeezed through a gap into the beginning of our universe. He’e is represented as squeezing through a black hole in the centre of the medal, into a ‘new beginning’.

On the other side of the medal is a Celtic symbol for ‘new beginnings.’ This talisman simultaneously represents my struggles and empowers me to keep moving forward.”

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CONCRETE] CREATIVES Photography: Oscar Dryden, BA (Hons) Press & Editorial Photography Graphic Design student Amber Rees and Press & Editorial Photography student Oscar Dryden have pooled their skills to create 48to1, a magazine that shines a light on the Cornish skating scene.

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Amber (far left image), who is in the final year of her course, didn’t want to miss out on the chance to collaborate with Oscar before graduation.

“Last term we worked on collaborative projects and I thought it’d be such a shame if I didn’t get to work with Oscar. I phoned him up and asked if he had any projects in mind, and he told me about ‘Hidden Cornwall’ – exposing a subculture that doesn’t get the recognition it deserves. We decided to run with it and focused on skateboarding.”

While it doesn’t get the same representation as the county’s surf culture, the Cornish skating scene is strong. Oscar was surprised to see how many options there are for locals. “I only started skating properly when I got to Falmouth. There are 37 skateparks dotted around Cornwall – everyone seemed to be on a board when I got here. You make new friends and new connections every time you go out to skate.”

After slowly embedding himself into what Oscar describes as ‘a really warm, chilled out’ community,

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the pair took on the challenge of creating 48to1: a testament to the scene that they have become so closely intwined with. Amber wrote the articles, organised photo shoots and designed the magazine, while Oscar has taken charge of the photography for the project.

"THERE ARE 37 SKATEPARKS DOTTED AROUND CORNWALL. EVERYONE SEEMED TO BE ON A BOARD WHEN I GOT HERE" OSCAR DRYDEN The 104-page magazine, which is a mixture of feature articles, interviews and photo-led pieces, was pulled together by the pair in just three months. They were even able to source advertising from local skating centre Mount Hawke Skatepark and place copies of their magazine in several local shops.

To have created an industry-standard publication in such a short time demonstrates the students’ dedication to their project. Oscar admits that the workload led to “a few sleepless nights” and Amber describes running from interview to interview in the late hours of winter evenings as interest in their work gained momentum.

The hectic schedule was all part of the thrill, though.

The duo loved the experience of creating 48to1.

Oscar says, “It didn’t feel like work at all. It was just something that we wanted to do.”

The pair are planning on releasing a second issue in the near future. “We want our next issue to feature skateboarders who also work as creatives. A lot of people might refer to skateboarding as art, but we’re literally going to explore artists who are also skateboarders,” says Amber.

Falmouth has plans for a new skatepark, but if you can’t wait, then you could try out Concrete Waves in Newquay, one of two parks in Penzance or Mount Hawke – Cornwall's largest indoor park.

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WILD Cornwall has 400 miles of coastline to explore, from long sandy beaches to hidden coves and busy harbours.

The sea doesn’t just make for a great backdrop though, it's an aquatic playground where you can immerse yourself (literally and figuratively) in a whole range of activities.

TOP TIPS FOR WILD SWIMMING:

SEA SWIMMING

Find some friends.

Sea swimming, or wild swimming as it’s also known, has become more popular than ever since the pandemic started.

And it’s no wonder: studies show that immersion into cold water, along with time spent in nature is not only a great way to stay active, but that it boosts mental health and immune systems.

With around 20 beaches in and around Falmouth alone, including safe, sheltered coves, you’ll be perfectly placed to take the plunge and start sea swimming.

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If you haven’t swam in the sea much before, it’s good to get a swimming buddy or join a group.

The Students' Union Sea Swimming Club meets every Sunday at 1pm and like to round off their sessions with a pint or a hot chocolate to warm up.

Pick your spot.

Gylly, Swanpool and Maenporth beaches are all great places to swim as the water is usually calm.

However, there can occasionally be surf and rip tides, so get to know your chosen location and always check it’s safe to swim.

Get the kit.

Anything goes when it comes to sea swimming – some people rock winter wetsuits, while others opt to go minimal, wearing just swimming costumes or trunks all year round. Either way, a swimming cap and goggles are really useful to help you see and be seen in the water.

Acclimatise.

If you’re planning on swimming year-round, it’s important to acclimatise to cold water.

As you get in, try wetting the most sensitive parts of your body – like your face, shoulders and the back of the neck – to help prime you for full immersion. Going for frequent dips, even if they’re short, will really help to build up your tolerance and confidence too.

WARM UP. Once you’ve got out of the water, get dressed and warm up as soon as possible. Some swimmers swear by dryrobes, but these can be pricey.

We recommend bringing a warm hat and gloves, along with a hot drink to help you warm up from the inside.

MAKE A SPLASH. The start of term is the perfect time to start swimming, as autumn is actually when the sea is at its warmest after being heated up by months of summer sun (well, theoretically at least!)

Get ready to jump in and fall in love with sea swimming once you arrive at Falmouth!

SCUBA DIVING While you’ll need to get a dry suit on, the waters around Falmouth offer some spectacular diving, with great visibility, wrecks and sea life aplenty. EFU BSAC is a student-led club that helps to keep the costs down. You can also try the Cornish Dive Centre in Falmouth, Atlantic Scuba in Mabe or Seaways based in Penryn.

SURF BOAT ROWING Not for the faint-hearted, surf boat rowing, a sport imported from the much warmer waters in Australia, is a small but growing sport around Cornwall. Fixed-seat fibreglass boats are launched from the beach and, as the name suggests, rowed through the surf. Expect an exhilarating, if bumpy, ride. Although mostly based on the north coast (St Agnes, Portreath and Porthtowan) lots of clubs row from Mylor throughout the winter. Plus, surf boat rowers are an enthusiastic, friendly bunch who are usually happy to share lifts during the summer.

GIG ROWING Pilot gigs – 32-foot-long fixed seat wooden boats – were originally working boats that would race out to guide ships into the harbour. Pilot gigs are now raced across the country and Falmouth boasts one of the most successful clubs. If you fancy giving it a go, they run novice sessions on Saturdays from 12-2pm from the Watersports Centre in Falmouth. You’ll also find friendly, welcoming clubs in Flushing and Mylor, Helford, Penryn, Devoran and Truro.

FAL SAILING CLUB Other ways to get your dose of Vitamin Sea:

SURFING Cornwall arguably offers the best surf in the UK, and whilst most of the best beaches are on the north coast, Fal Surf Club will help you progress, whatever your experience. There’s also the opportunity to join them for their annual trip to warmer waters.

KAYAKING Falmouth Student Kayak Club runs weekly skills sessions at Ships & Castles, as well as weekend trips paddling and surfing the coast. In and around Falmouth, you can hire kayaks from Swanpool, St Mawes, Mylor Harbour and Loe Beach.

With a J/24 yacht as well as several classes of laser and a RIB, joining the Sailing Society is a great way to get out and explore the coast. There’s regular racing in the Carrick Roads through the summer, as well as great potential for more relaxed sailing.

STAND UP PADDLEBOARDING Stand Up Paddleboarding (or SUP) is a relatively new sport and a great way to explore the many hidden coves and beaches around Falmouth. If you like a bit more of a challenge, there are opportunities for surf, sprint and long-distance racing too. Based on Gyllynvase Beach, WeSUP offers SUP hire and lessons. Or try Elemental at Swanpool.

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TOP 5

Adrenaline Hits

Don’t be fooled by Cornwall’s laidback appearance – there’s no shortage of adrenaline fuelled activities in the area.

Here are some of our top picks.

From wakeboarding, to mountain biking, to zip-lines, we’ve got you covered:

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HANGLOOSE ADVENTURE AT THE EDEN PROJECT @hanglooseadventure Set up above Eden’s epic biomes is England’s longest and fastest zip wire, covering 660 metres and travelling at speeds of up to 60mph. There are also 10m, 12m and 25m free-fall jumps, a giant cliff swing, a 33m base jump and a Skytrek aerial trekking course.

You can book everything direct with Hangloose Adventure.

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KERNOW ADVENTURE PARK @kernow_adventure_park Set at an idyllic, crystal-clear lake, Kernow Adventure Park is an adventure centre offering an aquapark assault course, inflatable rides, wakeboarding and paddleboarding. Located just down the road from the Penryn Campus and benefiting from its sheltered location, the park is the perfect place to learn to wakeboard, or to develop your skills.

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ADRENALINE QUARRY @adrenalinquarry You’ll need a ride to Liskeard, but Adrenaline Quarry lives up to it’s name. Adrenaline Quarry prides itself on throwing people off cliffs since 2009 - top billing is given to its double zip lines: 490m long, 50m high and reaching speeds of 40mph. They also offer a range of adrenaline pumping activities, including karting, coasteering and axe throwing.

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SURFING IN CORNWALL

BMX & MOUNTAIN BIKE TRAILS

Surfing is synonymous with Cornwall and, with more than 400 miles of coastline to explore, it’s not hard to see why. If you’re new to surfing there are surf schools aplenty and, if you’re an experienced surfer, you’re in for a treat. Some of our favourite surf spots in Cornwall include; Perranporth, Gwithian/Godrevey, Fistral Beach and Praa Sands.

Falmouth has two great bike parks right on its doorstep. Trescobeas Pumptrack incorporates different lines, varied height jumps and well-sculpted bends, giving you a great ride, whether it’s your first time on a BMX or if you’re an experienced rider looking for a challenge.

There’s also Falmouth Bike Park, which was designed and created by elite Team GB racer Will Evans. The national standard 4X track can test even the ability of world champions.

TOP 5 PLACES TO GET ACTIVE If workouts are your thing, then you’re in luck because Falmouth is full of places where you can exercise, enjoy yourself and stay healthy all at the same time. Here’s some of the places we’d recommend trying:

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PENRYN CAMPUS SPORTS CENTRE

ST MICHAEL’S HEALTH CLUB

@flexsifitness The purpose-built Sport Centre on our Penryn Campus is full of fantastic facilities. You’ll find a fully equipped gym, classes, personal training, sports courts for hire and much more. And with student membership it’s one of the best value gyms around.

4 THE GREAT OUTDOORS Whether it’s surfing, gig rowing, zumba on the beach, walking the South West Coast Path, yoga on stand-up paddle boards or pretty much anything else you can think of in between, the great outdoors in Cornwall is a great place to enjoy yourself and stay active.

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@stmichaelshealthclub If you’re looking for a health club in Falmouth, St Michael’s is the place to go. There’s a state-of-theart gym, hundreds of classes a week and the bonus of a pool, sauna and steam room.

5 EMBRACE DANCE FITNESS @embracedancefitness If you’re looking for fitness and fun then this is the place for you. Based in Penryn, you’ll find everything from Pilates and Zumba to Clubbercise and Boogie Bounce!

FITNESS WILD @fitnesswild Fitness Wild is based at Argal Lake, a reservoir just outside of Falmouth. The team run outdoor fitness classes from here as well as from Gyllyngvase Beach.

They have a great community and are perfect if you don’t like traditional gyms.

your

student union: With you every step of the way

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It won’t take you long to discover there are plenty of ‘one of a kinds’ in Falmouth.

From the characters you’ll meet in the town through to the explosion of creativity you’ll find everywhere you look.

The Students’ Union is no different. We’re the only union in the country to represent students from two different universities; Falmouth and Exeter.

We’re a membership-led charity, working to ensure that every student has the highest quality of education and the best student experience possible.

With more than 150 sports clubs and societies, we’ve got something for everyone, from Aerial Fitness to Zero Waste. Like a challenge? We have local, national, and international fundraising opportunities, including skydiving and mountain climbing. There’s also a platform for you to record your volunteering hours, so you can be recognised (and rewarded!) for your hard work.

The student voice is at the heart of what we do, with Course Reps, Student Council members and SU Presidents fighting your corner, taking your feedback to the highest levels of the University.

The SU President team for 2021/22 is Ben StathamWilkins (President Falmouth), Stevie Preece (President Exeter), Ellie Ricks (President Student Experience) and Charlotte Agnew (President Welfare & Inclusivity).

They’ll be spending the summer settling into their new roles, planning exciting campaigns and activities, and focussing on their manifesto priorities.

I was elected this year by the current students of Falmouth due to my strong manifesto points and possibly because of a campaign TikTok which went viral, who knows?

I am here to represent YOU to the higher ups within the university and make sure your voice is heard by them.

My main aims this year are: A REPRESENT scheme where the university commissions the students to help promote the university, getting the students work out there into the world Continue Falmouth’s 2030 plan with more collaboration between courses and students Develop and improve the current system, to ensure every student is heard Work on having lectures and seminars live streamed for those who feel uncomfortable to be in large numbers due to Covid And many more!

I have just finished my degree in Film at Falmouth University and I enjoyed every moment and I hope you enjoy your course as much as I did.

I know joining University can be scary, especially if you are leaving home for the first time, but please know that we are here for you and will only be a message away!

So, enjoy your Freshers' Week, make friends, get involved and enjoy your time here at Falmouth!

And make sure to follow our socials to keep up to date with what is happening and how you can get involved.

See you in September,

Ben

( he / him )

Follow your SU Presidents @supresidents We’re looking forward to meeting you all in September.

If you have any questions before you arrive, drop us a line at info@thesu.org.uk or catch us on social media @TheSUFalExe. For more info on the Students’ Union, head to thesu.org.uk.

We caught up with Ben to hear more about his role as Student President.

Hello there and welcome to Falmouth! I’m Ben, your SU President Falmouth 2021/22. As President it’s my job is to make sure you are taken care of and have the best experience throughout your student and academic life.

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find

YOUR PEOPLE

Life Drawing, Women in Business, Video Gaming and Pride – these are just a few examples of the vast array of societies and student-led activities you can get involved in while studying at Falmouth.

In fact, there are around 150 student societies to choose from!

Joining a society is a great way to make friends outside your halls, course and year group. Make time to do what you love, find a new passion, or try something you’ve never even considered before. And who knows, you might just finish your studies as a chess champion, a beekeeping extraordinaire or a high-flying acrobat!

MarineWatch Society A group that aims to celebrate and protect the amazing Cornish aquatic wildlife, for people who are passionate about marine conservation! The society runs monthly boat trips to give students the opportunity to get up close to beautiful creatures like seals and dolphins and to conduct surveys to monitor marine mammal and bird populations.

Particularly significant is the partnership with MARINElife, a UK-based charity established to coordinate and develop a growing portfolio of global cetacean and seabird research. All the data collected during excursions with MarineWatch is submitted to the charity’s national database.

As part of the society, you'll also have the opportunity to take part in documentary screenings, guest speaker sessions and special events. If you love the sea and its wildlife, this society is for you.

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SU Help Refugees SU Help Refugees is a student-led volunteering project, dedicated to raising funds and awareness for the charity Help Refugees. We aim to spread love, educate one another and ultimately build a community between students and local/international refugees.

As a refugee support group, we run fundraising events throughout the year that include jumble, bake and craft sales. We also run informative workshops such as film screenings, table talks on debated/current situations and guest speakers, providing students opportunities to engage with.

Kayaking Society Try kayaking with us for a friendly, relaxed adventure seeing Cornwall from a perspective that no one else can!

Come join us for our weekly skills sessions for those of any ability in the warmth of Ships and Castles swimming pool. Or join us on the weekend where we’ll take you out and about paddling or surfing the Cornish coast, running a river or exploring the waterways nearby. Throughout the year we take part in several national events, such as the National Student Rodeo in Nottingham, Polzeath Surf Trip and Teifi Tour in Wales. We’re not limited to the UK either – we’ve been abroad to Slovenia where we paddled and learnt river skills and it was a blast!

High Tea and Cocktail Society The High Tea and Cocktail Society is focused on the important things in life: tea, cake and cocktails (or mocktails if you prefer!) We are a welcoming group of students passionate about meeting new people through mixology, baking and generally taking a break from academic struggles.

Through becoming a member you’ll be able to get involved with our pub crawls in Truro and Falmouth, mixology events on campus and ‘Bring your Bakes!’ not only for fun but as a great way to meet new people!

We can’t wait to meet you!

Meditation and Mindfulness Society The Meditation and Mindfulness society runs weekly guided meditations, ranging from stress-relief to visualisations, relaxation to spiritual meditations.

It is an incredibly inclusive society, welcoming people from all walks of life, whether you've never tried it before in your life, or if you practise regularly. It is a safe space for all, establishing a community that comes together to try new techniques, doing so for all sorts of different reasons, personal and unique to each individual.

Horse Riding Society

sport. The stables, where the lessons are held, are immersed in the beautiful Cornish landscape, while the journey there and back is a perfect occasion to meet the other members, and often feels like a field trip! The Horse Riding society also organises several side activities, such as rides along the coast and archery while riding!

Tabletop Gaming Society The Tabletop Gaming Society is a friendly group dedicated to the pastime of boardgames, wargames including Warhammer 40k, card games and RPGs such as Dungeons and Dragons. We aim to create an enjoyable space where everyone can feel welcome and let their dice-rolling side out.

Vegan Society The SU Vegan Society is all about good people, good food, and positive activism. Whether you’re vegan or just want to reduce your impact on the world, you’re more than welcome to join us. We run a range of activities and events throughout the year, such as film screenings, discussion events, speakers, drinks nights and potlucks.

We also have a strong focus on positive, inclusive activism; this includes outreach events, peaceful demonstrations, and generally maintaining an active voice on campus for issues relating to food and social justice. Veganism is about peace and justice for all and we want to promote that environment within our society and on campus in general.

The Horse Riding Society organises weekly lessons, from beginner to advanced, so even if you don’t have any experience or have ridden just a little, you’ll still have the opportunity to learn this exciting and elegant

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Bee Soc Bee Soc is the place to bee if you’re a fan of our fuzzy little pollinator friends! You don’t need any previous knowledge or beekeeping experience to join – just a love for bees! We work closely with local beekeepers to maintain our own hives, show films and documentaries, have candle-making workshops and even try to produce our own honey! We also enjoy relaxing crafts and have made bee badges, bee bead decorations and have had bee drawing sessions.

There are plenty of opportunities to get involved: feel free to come along to our monthly “Bees and Teas” sessions for some tea, biscuits and a chat about bees.

time at university, while getting involved in the different activities offered by the society. Regular events include socials, film screenings, and artistic events aiming to encourage collaboration and visibility.

African Caribbean Society The Exe & Fal ACS aims to celebrate African and Caribbean heritage and educate those in and outside the community. The society is open to everyone, and activities range from big parties to educational speeches and cultural trips.

The Chorus The Chorus is a student run and member lead choir with a focus on providing something for everyone.

We sing a wide variety ranging from choir classics to more modern songs and we are always willing to try any suggestions and new genres. We were set up with a focus on a cappella music but also incorporate a more traditionally led choir set up, meaning we get to sing a wide range of styles and material. We welcome all levels of musical ability and training. We are a very social society, partaking in the local bar Mangos karaoke, busking, meals and films nights!

SU Pride Society The SU Pride Society provides an open and secure environment for members of the LGBTQ+ community.

We aim to provide an environment where people across the spectrum of gender and sexuality can feel safe, comfortable and happy with who they are during their

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Expedition Society If you enjoy the outdoors and love to hike then this is the society for you. By coming to study in Cornwall you’ll have access to miles of stunning coastline. From Land’s End to St Ives, all the iconic and beautiful locations are right on your doorstep and this society makes it easy for you to get out and explore them. Joining the group is a fantastic way to see new places, get some exercise and eat pasties all while getting to know new like-minded people at the same time. There’s nothing not to love! On top of regular coastal walks, the society also organises a huge range of other events: multi-day treks, film screenings and walking-based pub-crawls just to name a few. It is a friendly community of walkers that can’t wait to show you what Cornwall has to offer.

Penryn Press Penryn Press is a student run publishing house that for the last four years has been designing and producing books, which are being distributed around Cornwall and beyond as we speak. We focus on creating ethically made publications, showcasing the best talents that Cornwall has to offer, working closely with local writers, printers and artists.

With us, you’ll create beautifully made products, following every stage of the journey from the first idea to the press release and more. We are a fun, innovative society with a serious business focus.

Whether you’re interested in editing, production, marketing or sales, there’s a place for you!

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feeling

welcome in

falmouth

By Ann-Sophie Sussmann, third-year Theatre & Performance student As an openly bisexual woman from the countryside I know how hard and isolating it can be to be a part of the LGBTQ+ community there, so before coming to Falmouth, I had already told myself to expect a rather traditional social and cultural environment. But, throughout my stay here in Cornwall, this impression has been completely turned on its head.

Even at the very start, when I was filling out the first form the Uni had sent me, it asks you to state your official name but it also lets you put in another, preferred name. This might seem like a small detail but it can mean a lot to some people and immediately made me feel more comfortable.

More than that, from the get-go, the University, its societies and other students – some of whom have now become close friends of mine – made me feel welcomed.

Yes, Falmouth is in a rural area, but you can feel the buzz of fresh creativity and a lively community everywhere.

The fact that Falmouth University is home to so many innovative courses means the town and area are filled with creative and open-minded people.

There are specific LGBTQ+ nights in some clubs like Mangos or The King’s, or if you prefer some quiet daytime activities, there’s also the Uni’s Pride Society. Open to everyone regardless of orientation or identity, they host Fresher’s events like quizzes, café mornings and other socials, which is a great way of getting to know new people and actively participating in the local community.

I’ve had eye-opening conversations with fellow LGBTQ+ students and over my three years here, I’ve come to think

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about parts of my identity that I’d never considered before, and have had other parts reaffirmed. It’s been lovely to find my feet in such an inclusive and diverse environment.

To say it’s been encouraging and inspiring is an understatement!

EXPLORING IDENTITY Take a look at some of the work being created by current students and alumni examining different aspects and expressions of identity.

Astitva ‘Astitva’ is a short experimental documentary film made by and for trans and gender-non-conforming people, directed by Nella Gocaland, and produced by Vedha Poddar and Jana TownsendGee, all third-year Film students.

But I’m a boy

BOI

‘But I’m a boy’ is a project by MA Photography student Douglas Stenhouse studying the life of Drew, a transgender man and the sole parent for his children.

For Drew, who’s on the autism spectrum, the project was a way for him to explore his thoughts and representation of self through Douglas’ images.

‘BOI’ is a short documentary film, which picked up a Royal Television Society Award, was made by Film alumni Dionne Rayner and Laura Grace Marr. The film explores the rights and journeys of members of the transgender community in the UK.

Giv a Dam ‘Giv a Dam’ is an award-winning campaign exploring what it’s like to navigate sexual wellbeing, pleasure, and safety as a queer womxn*, created by Creative Advertising alumni Nina Forbes and Jessica Kielstra. *alternative spelling of women, used to avoid perceived sexism

Scan the QR code to find out more:

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insider information

By Gemma Audus, second-year Graphic Design student

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One of my biggest concerns when I was starting university was whether I could afford it, so I was keen to save as much money as possible. Over the past two years I’ve found many ways to save money as a student at Falmouth. Here are my top tips for an affordable uni experience:

1. Plan your meals There are several ways this will save you money.

Firstly, it will mean you only buy food you are going to eat, eliminating waste. Secondly, it means you will go food shopping with a list so you are less likely to make random expensive purchases. And most importantly, you are less likely to succumb to takeaway temptation if you already know what you are going to cook and have the ingredients in the fridge. To do this, decide what you are going to have for dinner each night for the next few days. Then write a list of all the ingredients for those meals you do not already have in the house. Then add food for breakfast, lunch and snacks, and get it all in one trip.

2. Find simple recipes Nosh cookbooks are great for this. They even include meal plans and shopping lists! Alternatively search online for great value dishes.

3. Get a reusable bottle Carry a drink in a reusable water bottle and snacks wherever you go. This prevents you from having to buy bottled water and expensive ready-to-eat food on the go. It also helps save the planet, as preprepared food is often heavily packaged.

4. Buy second hand Falmouth has many second-hand stores. My favourite is Pants, a huge charity shop in a warehouse on the Ponsharden industrial estate (near McDonalds). It is easy to get there as the U1, U2, U3 and U4 buses all stop very nearby. Dig’n’Delve on Swanpool street also deserve a special mention, as in there you can buy wetsuits from as little as £10.

5. Find free activities Spend your weekends doing free activities. There are so many things to do in Falmouth that are free. You could go for a walk along our coastal path, pick apples for a crumble in our on-campus orchard, take a dip in the sea or visit one of our amazing art galleries.

6. Join a society Many of Falmouth’s societies involve very little cost.

Some have a membership fee of only £1 to £5 and after that most activities are free. You to have fun and meet people for very little cost.

7. Only buy essentials When preparing for the big move, only buy the things you really need. You won’t use fancy kitchen gadgets or lots of crockery. Try asking parents and other family members if they have any spare household items they don’t need – like mugs or towels.

8. Get discounted travel The 16-25 railcard is only £30 and it will get you 1/3 off train tickets for a year. This could give you a huge saving if you are studying far from home or if you're planning on travelling regularly. The First Bus app allows you to buy cheaper bus tickets or a monthly pass, which will save you money if you’re going to be travelling most days.

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THE BEST STUDENT BARGAINS

By Imogen Donlan, third-year Fine Art student One of the biggest challenges for every university student is how to have the best experience whilst maintaining economic stability and academic success.

There are a million behaviours that you can adopt to do this and money saving tips are littered across the web but here are some I have used to stretch my purse in Falmouth.

Free items In Falmouth and its wider areas there is a fantastic sense of intercommunity sharing of resources and sustainability.

As you begin to explore Falmouth and Penryn you'll notice a whole load of useful items and wonderful bits and bobs in front of people’s properties, corners and alleyways. So do explore and look out for free items! Another way of tapping into this is by joining Facebook groups, a popular one is ‘C.R.A.P’, and by utilising Facebook Marketplace where you can find loads of regular posts of old gadgets, useful project materials and offcuts and homeware. This is my favourite way of allowing my projects to be as big and unrestricted as possible while saving money with a sustainable bonus.

Discount codes Online shopping is a tricky guilty pleasure that everyone can slip into especially with the excitement of the first loan arriving in your account. Use website like UNIDAYS and TOTUM to find discount codes. Or, if you are using Chrome, download HONEY on to your plugin bar when you reach the checkout and it will automatically scan for applicable discount codes.

Student card If you want student savings in stores as well as online, you might want to get a TOTUM card, which costs £14.99 a year.

There are a whole load of deals available from big brands like Amazon, ASOS and Samsung.

Find out more at: totum.com

Local deals Movie magic Get a Movie Magic Card from Merlin Cinema and you can benefit from 2 for 1 Mondays, £2.50 off tickets, and 10% off the price of food and drink*. The card is not only valid at the Phoenix Cinema in Falmouth, but in the five other Merlin Cinema cinemas based in Cornwall.

The Poly Whether you enjoy a film screening, theatre performance or a music show, the Poly offers students (with a valid student card) a discount on events and membership.

Baker Tom’s Pick up freshly made bread, pastries and possibly the best cheese scones we’ve ever tasted at Baker Tom’s shop in Church Street. There’s a 10% discount for students, along with daily sandwich deals.

The National Trust Cornwall is blessed with some truly fantastic National Trust gardens and properties. There are also a number of National Trust car parks at some of the best beaches, which cuts down the cost of exploring Cornwall. You can get a young person annual membership for just £36* a year. It’s a real bargain.

Inkfish hairdressers Need your hair to be on point and want to treat yourself? The Falmouth branch of Inkfish offers a 15% student discount on hair and beauty on Mondays and Tuesdays.

The Eden Project Pay by Direct Debit and you can get a Locals’ Pass to the Eden Project for just £15*. With a great range of events happening around the year, plus the chance to see the gardens in the different seasons, you’ll want to visit again and again.

*Prices and offers correct at time of publication

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FIND YOUR WAY WITH THE COMPASS It’s been a weird year. We’ve all had to adjust to different ways of working, shopping and socialising.

And starting university requires a bit more adjusting again. But don’t worry. We know you might need some support while at university, which is why we put all of our student services together in one place at The Compass.

Advice If you’re worried about anyone’s welfare, behaviour or personal issues - including your own - just get in touch.

We can guide you on a wide range of issues and also work with external partners like healthcare professionals, support agencies and the police. So even if we can’t help, we’ll know someone who can.

Counsellors Our counsellors offer confidential support for students experiencing difficulties with their psychological or emotional wellbeing. They are qualified practitioners who aim to help you cope more effectively with any personal and emotional difficulties that may arise at university.

Finances We have a range of financial support at undergraduate or postgraduate level to help students fulfil their potential during their studies. We also offer advice and support to help students access government loans and other university bursaries.

Mental health Our Student Support team provides expert advice and support on a range of mental health difficulties. Team members are registered mental health professionals, who can help students consider options for support and provide advice for students managing mental health difficulties.

A listening ear You’re always welcome at our multifaith chaplaincy. Students and staff from every faith - and no faith - regularly drop in for pastoral and spiritual care. And a nice cup of tea. Both the Penryn and Falmouth chaplaincies have a quiet room for reflection, contemplation, meditation and prayer.

Find us at: Penryn campus: Level 1, Exchange Building Falmouth campus: Lower Courtyard (term-time only)

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THANK-YOU As you might have guessed by now, there’s much more to Falmouth and Cornwall than meets the eye, and a whole lot more we couldn’t fit between the pages of The Fuse. But then, we don’t want to reveal all our favourite spots and deny you the pleasure of discovering them for yourself!

Your experience at Falmouth won’t be like living anywhere else. Cornwall is a truly unique place where people can be themselves. Your time as a student might be full of drinks on the beach, dancing in the streets and sea shanties in the pub.

It could consist of exploring natural beauty spots and spotting local wildlife or, perhaps something different altogether.

But whatever life you create here at Falmouth, we know that you’ll be welcomed into this creative, rebellious, vibrant community, and we promise that you’ll leave with memories that last a lifetime. Just make sure to make the most of it!

THE FUSE TEAM

Useful Information

Supermarkets

From your studies to your social life, there’s a lot to look after at university. Below you’ll find some useful and practical information to help you survive!

Along with a variety of corner shops, you’ll find the following supermarkets in Falmouth and Penryn:

Getting Around Bus There are dedicated university buses, which run between both campuses every 10 minutes throughout the day.

Train With multiple stations in Falmouth and one in Penryn, it’s easy to hop on a train and explore Cornwall or travel further afield.

Bike There are secure cycle storage facilities at both campuses, along with free showers and changing facilities for cyclists.

Car Car parking permits for Penryn Campus are available at an annual cost if you meet certain criteria. You can also find electric vehicle charging points on our Penryn campus.

Taxis Abacus: 01326 212141 Able Cabs: 01326 373007 A2B Taxis: 01326 317898 Falmouth and Penryn Radio Taxis: 01326 313131

Student Services Student Services can help you through your time at university with a range of specialist service and information, from Wellbeing Services through to Living Support. If you don’t know which service you need, The Compass is a great first port of call for any questions you have and can point you in the right direction to help and support. studentservices@fxplus.ac.uk 01326 370460

ASDA (Penryn) Lidl (Falmouth) Sainsburys (Falmouth) Tesco Metro and Tesco Express (Falmouth)

Visitor Information There’s a great Visitor Information Centre on the Prince of Wales Pier. The staff are full of local knowledge and can give you tips for exploring Falmouth and further afield. vic@falriver.co.uk 01326 741194

Emergency Contact Numbers In the event of a serious emergency, you should always contact the police, ambulance, fire services or coastguard by dialling 999.

Campus Security assistance: 4444 (on campus) or 07768 557779 NHS Medical Advice Line: 111 Out of hours GP service: 0845 6710270 Samaritans: 116 123 You can call the Samaritans for free at any time and talk about issues big and small.

Student Health There are surgeries in both Falmouth and Penryn. If you register with the Penryn Surgery, you can even see a doctor at the Student Health Centre on the Penryn Campus.