Volunteer Work Experience in the Community
The current arrangements for Rank Foundation Leadership Award holders
Since Summer 2003 the Rank Foundation has required its Leadership Award holders to spend two weeks with a charitable organisation for during each year of their support. Typically in the Lower Sixth year they will spend a fortnight with one of the Youth organisations being funded by The Foundation, where we have special connections. In the Upper Sixth year they may choose to work another charitable organisation if that has the support of the Head and the Foundation.
Because many of the students are very tied up with a host of other commitments this often means that the Placement is during the Summer holiday period, although on occasion it takes place in the Easter holiday or during a half term period.
Examples of some of the placements – and some comments arising:
A 2 weeks at Weston Spirit in Liverpool.
“initially nervous about imposing myself (the public school boy) on those who haven’t been as fortunate as myself. The work itself was very rewarding (if draining dealing with hyperactive and short attention spans).
B A week with Winged Fellowship in Cornwall, helping a group of very disabled children to enjoy the rare treat of a holiday.
“I enjoyed having the opportunity to get to know some remarkable children who just get on and make the most of their lives despite their disabilities.. I would recommend people of all ages to consider volunteering with the Winged Fellowship as not only do you get a lot from your experience there but you also help the guests to have a great time as well.”
C Two weeks with Bosco Juniors in Easterhouse Glasgow for a girl from Portsmouth
“It was such shock when I first saw Easterhouse. Everywhere was run down and boarded up and the school a grey factory like building. … an amazing opportunity from which i have got so much. My leadership skills have improved as well as the skills that enable me to work as a valuable member of a team. However the greatest reward of all has been spending time with these great children.”
D 2 weeks with Young People Cornwall doing a variety of things including attending ‘Drop-ins’, workshops, team meetings and raising the Youth café’s profile at community events as well as doing admin tasks and office duties.
“I feel I have become much more confident with people I do not know from all different ages and backgrounds…trusted with positions of responsibility .. my time here completely surpassed my expectations”
E Two weeks working with young people in Wakefield.
“My work at St Catherine’s has been diverse, challenging, interesting and fun. I have gained job experience and life experience working with and in a multi-ethnic community.”
F Two weeks with Community Campus in the Middlesbrough area, shoulder to shoulder with homeless people being given a chance to improve their situation, learning new skills as they improve derelict property and live in it and then given advice over career applications.
Interesting experience with young people from very different backgrounds. Firsthand experience of the amazing support given to people as they gradually improved their lot.
G A fortnight with children from underprivileged backgrounds in Pontefract.
Took part in a variety of activities (e.g. helping organise a rock climbing expedition, a 5-a-side tournament, planned and delivered Drama workshop etc
“My time at All Saints has changed the way I behave in everyday situations. I feel more confident and have seriously developed my people skills.”
H A fortnight with the Cheshire Youth Federation
“in the first week helping out in a number of projects wherever I could .. and the second week at a camp in Scarborough .. made me realise just how lucky I am.."