Students share their Malawi adventure

This week’s whole school assembly was led by Mr Coma, Head of Junior Year, and a group of Sixth Form students who spent three unforgettable weeks in Malawi over the summer. They shared stories of the schools, communities, and wildlife projects they visited, showing just how much impact our long-standing partnership with Hope4Malawi is having. Mr Coma led this year’s trip and opened by reflecting on this:

“For nearly a decade, Trinity has enjoyed a very special partnership with the Hope4Malawi charity. Supported by fundraising events which run throughout the year, we’ve been able to help transform the lives of countless young people at Chipwepwete Primary and Hope Secondary School. Just like at Trinity, values lie at the heart of their schools and communities. We were welcomed with extraordinary warmth and generosity, and it was clear to see just how deeply both students and staff value learning, and how education can lead to brighter futures.”

The assembly then turned to a group of current Upper Sixth students and one of last year’s Upper Sixth, who shared their experiences of the trip.

Zara described the group’s time at Chipwepwete Primary School, where Trinity has supported a feeding programme and helped fund new classrooms. She said, “It costs about £15 a year for one child’s meals, and since the programme began attendance at school has gone from around 400 children to over 700,” she said, highlighting how small contributions can make a huge difference.

Jess then shared a moving story about visiting Hope Secondary School and meeting the family of Samuel, a student whose education is vital to his family’s future. “They were relying on Samuel doing well in school, going to university and getting a good job to provide for his family. This really put into perspective the lives of these students and how they rely on their education.”

Recent leaver Matthew spoke about practical projects in the communities, including repairing water pumps and building energy-efficient ovens.  “It was a privilege to work alongside the villagers, not just as helpers, but as welcomed guests,” he explained.

Lillian shared the group’s conservation experiences at Majete Wildlife Reserve, where they helped protect wildlife and learn about the park’s remarkable recovery. She said, “In 2003, it was nearly empty of wildlife and tourism. But through a bold partnership with African Parks, it’s become a thriving ecosystem and national asset.”

Katy reflected on visits to a local prison and the Tilitonse community centre, joining in sports, music, and games with local people. She said, “It was really about building friendships and connecting with people from different cultures,” she said.

Finally, Matthew reminded everyone of the power of small contributions: “Our trip was life-changing, and showed us how small contributions – whether funding a meal, fixing a borehole, or building a classroom – can have enormous impact.”

The assembly was a wonderful celebration of the students’ experiences and a reminder of how our partnership with Hope4Malawi is changing lives – both for the children in Malawi and for the students who have the privilege to visit and support these communities firsthand.