A former Driffield School student has recently returned from a month in Malawi as part of a school initiative to create overseas experiences for students.
Jessica Watson, who first visited the African country as part of a school trip in 2005, has been back again to develop links with Malawian communities and research project locations, accommodation and travel.
The experience is named Khudza Mitima, which means ‘touch hearts’ and is for Driffield School students to volunteer in Malawi, which is something Mr Watson of the school has already been involved in for the past 10-years.
The project is also supported by Manor School in York and three ex-Manor students are aiming to go to Malawi in 2014 to do a three month project prior to going to University.
Jess, who studied at the Leeds College of Music, said: “I think gap project trips will culturally enrich the students and will teach them important values, and in return the students are committing their time and skills to the communities. It’s a reciprocal exchange in touching people’s hearts in different ways.
“I think everyone owes something to their community and it is important not to just take but give something back. There are 1.4 billion people living in extreme poverty, the kind of poverty that means you live on less than a £1 per day and I think it should be in everyone’s interest to help overcome this issue. We all share the same planet.
“Volunteering in Malawi is a really special experience and something that has changed my life.”
The voluntary work includes teaching, health-care, horse-care and event organisation opportunities and is aimed at immersing students in the Malawian culture.
For any students interested in the opportunity please speak to Head of Sixth Form at Driffield School Mr Andrews or Mr Watson.