Rolling up their sleeves for the community
01 Dec 2020
Christchurch community groups felt the combined force of Year 10 College boys over the past week, as they dug in to help on conservation and service projects.
Practical help, much of it involving muscle strength and fitness, has resulted in the year group working closely through Volunteering Canterbury with a wide range of organisations – from community gardens to conservation projects, from gardening at Burwood Hospital to decorating the hospital Christmas tree.
“There are lots of small community groups which do incredible work in the wider community and to have a group of 10–12 boys turning up makes quite a difference,” says Neil Porter Assistant Principal – Community Engagement and Special Projects, who organised the rotating schedule of activity for the College groups.
The Condell’s House boys spent their days last week at the Avonside Early Childhood Centre, where the House has built a strong relationship over the past 12 months.
Spreydon School in Hoon Hay enjoyed the help of the Rolleston House boys who have also fostered strong ties with them over the past two years.
“The Rolleston Year 10 boys have helped out a lot around the school, and were especially welcome for their assistance at the school’s junior sports day.”
College Year 10 groups have been working on conservation projects for Trees for Canterbury and the Banks Peninsula Conservation Trust; some have stayed overnight in Akaroa, or on farm stays to be closer to the action. There has also been College involvement with the City Mission and Habitat for Humanity, and the College’s own environment project and nursery has benefited from their attention.
While the Year 10s have been engaged in service, the Year 9s, under Graeme Christey’s organisation have focused on outdoor education. They have alternated between a stint camping at Craigieburn, and day trips around Canterbury, including surfing, paddle boarding, and adventure park cycling.
