| News update Two of our sixth form students are about to embark on a 50-mile sponsored hike, to help raise funds for schools in developing countries. Charlie Austin and Christopher Preston-Bell will set out from school at 1pm on Friday May 23 and walk for 24 hours - including through the night - in order to raise funds to help schools in the Gambia. Each year, a group of 20-25 lower sixth form students spend 10 days in the College’s adopted community of Old Jeshwang, where they teach basic science lessons to young children in otherwise deprived schools. The students, many of whom are involved in community service as part of their International Baccalaureate, endure hot and humid conditions with temperatures up to 35C, but frequently find the experience life-changing. Charlie, who is joining this year’s visit to the Gambia, said: “Not only are the visits beneficial for the children and schools in the Gambia, but they give the Ardingly students valuable life experience, an appreciation of different cultures and a realisation of the hardship that is endured on a day to day basis in developing countries.” Prior to the trip, each student is required to raise a minimum of £200, which is pooled together and divided between the schools in which the students teach then used to purchase classroom essentials such as books, paper, pens and pencils. Ardingly has developed its links with the Gambia over a number of years, and has also been busy raising funds to build a school in Gilgil, Kenya. Charlie and Christopher hope that local businesses will step in and help with sponsorship for their 24-hour hike, as well as parents, staff and friends at the College. Christopher said: “The aim of the hike is two-fold – to raise money for schools in the Gambia and to raise awareness of the poverty which still exists in many places throughout the world. A few pounds to us can make a world of difference for children in places like the Gambia, where £80 will educate a child for a whole year.” |