Pupils learn about volunteering around the world

Outreach International focus on individual volunteer placements in community-led projects, where volunteers live and work among the communities they serve, enjoying a richly rewarding cultural experience and a productive volunteering role.

Steve Summers said: “Thanks to Collyer’s Lucy Hargreaves for the opportunity to talk to the students about volunteering overseas, as one potential part of a gap year. It’s a rewarding part of my role to meet such inspiring and ambitious young adults, who want to help make a difference to those less privileged than themselves.”

Collyer’s Lucy Hargreaves, from the college’s Progression Directorate said: “The name of the game for Outreach is to enable students to build on their interpersonal skills, confidence and career prospects. It is certainly very important that our students are aware of this pathway as an option for the future.”

Over 30 students enjoyed the event and were interested in listening to what Outreach International could offer via a variety of projects ranging from social responsibility to conservation in countries around the world.

Collyer’s student Sheaba Philip said: “I found the session very informative and it’s really inspired me to venture out of my comfort zone to experience new opportunities”.

Steve Summers added: “Travelling abroad offers huge potential to develop new life skills and cultural insights; to do so while volunteering enables you to learn those lessons while living and working as part of a community, which is a more meaningful and responsible way of travelling.”

Senior Tutor Ian McAlister said: “In addition to the Outreach presentation, record numbers of students have taken part in HE and Oxbridge conventions, employability skills and management workshops and numerous events in conjunction with ‘My Kinda Crowd’, The National Careers Service, ‘Not Going to Uni’ and The National Apprenticeship Service.

“Coming soon we are hosting two Higher Education Evenings, a Planning Your Future Day and our annual ‘Challenge of Management’ competition for approximately 100 students, this year hosted by South Lodge. It really is a busy and exciting time at Collyer’s!”

Collyer’s Assistant Principal, Melanie Russell was delighted: “This event is just one of many that the students will have in the coming months, to help them make the right decision for their futures. Massive thanks to Steve Summers for taking time out of his busy schedule to talk to our students. Thanks also to our very own Lucy Hargreaves for co-ordinating this excellent event.”