In advance of their visit, the students have been doing various fundraising events. Therefore, they are also taking with them over £1,000 which they have raised over the last year through bag packing, a quiz night and African themed fundraising lunch. This money will pay for the materials needed for the projects the group are going to be working on and to support the general day to day work of the charities.
Richard Nihill, RE Teacher and Lay Chaplain at Archbishop Holgate’s, said: “Our visit always has a threefold dimension to it. There is the educational element; visiting Robben Island and Table Mountain, as well as other places. There is the extensive community service element through the volunteering work we undertake and finally there is element of engagement with local people through home stay with a local church and a school, attending youth events and working alongside the local people.”
All the students who are going on the expedition previously completed the Archbishop of York’s Young Leaders Award and this has inspired them to continue to “be the change they want to see”. To attain the Archbishop’s Young Leader Award, all students must complete a mix of both classroom and practical work which is focused on leadership skills and making a difference in local communities.
“I am sure that these two weeks are going to leave a huge impression on the young people and be an unforgettable experience” said Richard Nihill.
The group will be tweeting while they are in Cape Town. If you wish to follow the progress of their
expedition then follow @AHSChaplaincy on Twitter.