Newbold College Launches 2026-2027 Academic Year with Community and Encouragement
Newbold College of Higher Education officially launched the 2026-2027 academic year on campus with its annual Opening Assembly. The event brought together returning learners, new arrivals, online students, staff, and special guests from the local community.
The assembly commenced with a student-led worship team singing "The Heart of Worship," followed by an opening prayer dedicating the semester to God’s guidance across students’ spiritual, mental, and physical health.
College Principal Dr Dan Serb delivered the opening address, welcoming learners back to campus corridors. He formally acknowledged Councillor Guy Gillbe and Community Engagement Officer Dave Bryant from Bracknell Forest Council, noting the importance of local community partnerships. Emphasizing the college's research-active faculty, Dr Serb encouraged learners with Joshua 1:9, assuring them they are not walking their journey alone:
"This campus and this college with its quiet paths and its long tradition of learning and faith now belongs to you too... You don’t have to have it all figured out to take the next step."Dr Dan Serb, College Principal
The Newbold Student Association (NSA) executive team was introduced, featuring NSA President Sioned Bullock, Secretary David Prgojic, Events Coordinator Tarique Tomlinson, and Treasurer Alan Zukowski. The NSA team announced the creation of an academic hub, peer study groups for Biblical Greek and Hebrew, and regular Sunday evening study sessions to support learners across campus and online.
Dr László Gallusz, Head of the Department of Theology and Ministry, welcomed students to a fresh start, urging them to make the most of their modules:
"Lecturers are here not only to mark you and to deliver the content of the modules; they are here to support you, to help you. We are journeying together with you, helping you to be the best of yourself."Dr László Gallusz, Head of the Department of Theology and Ministry
Dr Gallusz introduced the teaching faculty across Practical Theology, Systematic Theology, and Biblical Studies, noting that Senior Lecturer Dr Gifford Rhamie has returned to full-time service with the department. He also announced a new institutional AI policy, module audit opportunities, and upcoming intensives.
Support for the year ahead
Learning Support
Specialist Hazel Reynolds shared a reflection on justice, mercy, and kindness from Micah 6:8, assuring learners with neurodiverse profiles and specific study needs of compassionate, confidential academic support.
Library Services
Head Librarian Nevena Borcsok welcomed students to the campus library, outlining EBSCO discovery tools, global thesis databases, and orientation tours.
Marketing & Digital Strategy
Department Head Alexandre Ghiorzi introduced the team, launching a student creative competition on the theme "What fills your spiritual tank?", as well as a student ambassador initiative and Newbold Connect sign-ups.
Student Life & Chaplaincy
Danilo Puskas closed the service with key community announcements, including weekly campus ministries, sports hall hours, the annual retreat to Aberdaron, student counseling partnerships with Youthline, and campus safeguarding procedures.
The assembly concluded by inviting all students, staff, and guests outside for a campus lunch barbecue. The gathering offered everyone an informal opportunity to connect, share fellowship, and celebrate the launch of the new academic year together under the late summer sun.
Watch the Opening Assembly
Revisit the welcome, worship and encouragement for the year ahead.