Exhibitions and activities
Public exhibitions of every aspect of the work of the College and its students were held under the College roof and at external events. Displays showed people how they could make best use of resources, teaching them about healthy eating and demonstrating new technologies to make people's lives easier. The staff and students also set an example of how to lead healthy lives through engaging in sports and extra-curricular activities which served the public good.
Exhibitions ranged from small displays to events involving the entire College. As well as showcasing the work of the College, it also gave the opportunity for members of the public to experience the exemplary domestic science facilities.
A large exhibition was given in 1928 where the extensive programme included practical demonstrations and displays of every aspect of student work. All courses were represented and every teaching space was utilised, as well as the student residences.
Lectures and demonstrations on topics such as cookery, hygiene, household sewing, and sick nursing were open to members of the public who could attend single lessons rather than registering for a full course. These were either held in the College or provided at other venues in surrounding districts.
The College had a Nutrition Centre in the Women of the Empire Pavilion at the 1938 Glasgow Empire Exhibition held in Bellahouston Park. Running from May to December, the Exhibition attracted over 12 million visitors. Throughout this time staff and students of the College ran a series of demonstrations, teaching the public about healthy diets for adults, children, people with health problems, and for people on low budgets.
Films about the work of the College were made for the Exhibition and a copy of one from that period can be viewed on the Scottish Moving Image Archive website.
Over the decades mannequin parades were organised to show off the work of Group II diploma students. These events were often used to help raise funds for charity and also to demonstrate what could be made in the home without spending a lot of money. During WWII a ‘Make do and mend’ exhibition ended with a parade of outfits renovated and remodelled by students.
In 1927 the College formed a Voluntary Aid Detachment (VAD), under the Red Cross, known as Glasgow 12. The VAD members provided first aid and nursing services as well as demonstrating their skills at public exhibitions and events. In April 1932 their expertise was recognised when they won the Stanley Shield, an annual national contest among VADs. Glasgow 12 won numerous trophies which were widely reported in the press.
In 1930 the College opened its recreation ground at Chesterfield Avenue providing the students with opportunities for exercise. By taking part in sports the students demonstrated the benefits of exercise in maintaining a healthy lifestyle.
