COMMUNITY SERVICE
or heavily subsidised education that would take them out of poverty. The result has been continuing strong links with the local community – and a desire to give back – that endure to this day. No wonder schools’ dedication to serving others is no mere tick-box exercise, but rather a whole-hearted commitment where links with organisations, local and further afield, are strengthened over time. For many, a major focus is the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award, where pupils aged 14 and above work towards bronze, silver and gold awards, each of which includes a substantial volunteering component. Schools in our area can be highly innovative in the way this works. Some
“Just about everywhere you look – from community orchards to sports participation programmes – you will find pupils from our schools doing their bit”
have developed close ties with their local neighbourhoods. One school even plays a leading part in the organisation of the annual community fair, with pupil volunteers helping to run stalls. Others get involved in everything from litter picking to collaborating with primary schools, working with the office team to provide useful admin backup,
cataloguing books for a new school library, and even supporting potentially disengaged young pupils, using games, discussions and trips to help them see education in a better light – sometimes for the first time. Just about everywhere you look – from community orchards to sports participation programmes, charity shops to fundraising art exhibitions – you
28 AUTUMN/WINTER 2023
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