As National Volunteers’ Week celebrates the people who give their time to support others, Trinity is reflecting on the contribution made by its Lower Sixth students through the Community Action element of the Sixth Form Diploma.
Over the past ten weeks, students have supported local schools, charities and community organisations while building relationships and gaining valuable experiences of their own.
This year, 161 Lower Sixth students completed ten weeks of volunteering across 29 placements throughout the local community, contributing an impressive 1,323 hours of service. Based on recognised volunteering valuations, this represents an estimated £16,815 worth of donated time.
Community Action forms a key part of the Sixth Form Diploma and reflects our belief that education is about more than academic achievement. Through carefully developed partnerships across the borough, students are encouraged to contribute to the lives of others while gaining a deeper understanding of the communities around them.
Led by Head of Community Action Mrs Burrage, the programme is designed to ensure that every placement is purposeful and mutually beneficial. She says, “Community Action is about helping students understand the value of service and their role within the wider community. We work closely with our partners to create placements where students can make a genuine contribution while developing confidence, empathy and a deeper understanding of others.”
Students supported younger children in primary schools, worked alongside volunteers in community organisations, and spent time with residents in care and sheltered living settings. Along the way, they developed communication, leadership, adaptability and confidence, while gaining a greater appreciation for people from different generations and backgrounds.
Róisín, who volunteered at Hall Grange Care Home, said, “What many people may consider to be a sad and lonely experience, the home is actually full of joy with all of the residents always happy to see each other and us on our weekly visits. The experience strengthened my communication skills, patience and empathy.”
For Rahul, volunteering at Fairchildes Primary School provided valuable leadership experience. He reflected, “I have really benefitted from my time at Fairchildes. I have taken away the skill of teaching and understanding younger children.”
One memorable example of the programme’s impact came through Trinity’s partnership with Whitgift Care. Students recently joined residents of Whitgift House for a friendly croquet match which, despite the weather bringing proceedings to an early close, was full of laughter, conversation and good humour. The afternoon continued with a quiz and live music, creating the kind of intergenerational connections that sit at the heart of Community Action.
As National Volunteers’ Week highlights the difference volunteers make every day, we are grateful to the many schools, charities and community organisations who welcome our students each year.
We are immensely proud of the commitment, enthusiasm and kindness shown by this year’s Lower Sixth students, and of the positive contribution they have made to the wider community.
Scroll right to see more stories
