SAMPLING college life was top of the agenda as students gained an insight into their futures.
Northallerton College opened its doors to young people from across the area to give them a taste of the subjects they could be studying for the next two years.
For students in Year 11 at Northallerton College the day was a chance to dress down and leave their normal timetable behind.
Among some of the more traditional A level courses being offered, such as chemistry, there were other subjects such as a new one or two year diploma in media.
Students also had the chance to meet pupils from Thirsk School, Bedale School, St Francis Xavier, Richmond, Wensleydale School, Leyburn, Ryedale School, Nawton and Queen Mary's, Topcliffe, who are considering joining the college for A levels.
Chloe Dearlove, 15, of Thirsk, said: "It would be good to go somewhere different, where you can get to know new people."
Carrie Worgan, 16, of Romanby, was one of the many Northallerton College students staying put. "I'm doing all sciences and I've heard the college is the best for results in my subjects," she said.
Emily Barugh, 16, of Romanby, added: "I think the individual relationships you have with your teachers is important at this stage so I'm not sure going to a bigger college would be the right thing to do."
Matthew Sisk, 15, of Appleton Wiske, added: "It's so handy to be able to stay in the area and because you don't have to get to know new teachers you can just get straight on with your courses."
Students got to experience a range of subjects from photography to drama, chemistry to health and social care during the day.
Head of sixth form Bronia Harris explained: "There's a wonderful atmosphere on taster day. Visiting students can work alongside our own students and get to know them so it's not so daunting for them arriving in September.
"All the students can find out more about the subjects they're thinking of taking and talk informally to teachers. It’s important to get the right combination of courses to match future plans and aspirations so this is one of the things we do to help them make those important decisions. It's a very valuable opportunity."
