Seaford College Big Day Out to help community

Head teacher John Green joined in the effort at Monkmead Wood, helped to remove Himalayan balsam

SEAFORD College’s Big Day Out saw an unprecedented number of students and staff surge out into the community to help a variety of environmental and social causes.

More than 450 people took part in the Petworth college’s third annual Community Action Day at 33 different locations in West Sussex.

Head teacher John Green, who created the initiative, said: “The main idea is to make a positive difference to the surrounding community.

“Due to the success last year, Wednesday afternoons are now blocked out in the timetable for weekly community events. Our students are extremely fortunate to study and live in such a beautiful part of the country, it is only right that they put something back.”

Students returned to the Whyke Estate in Chichester

Pupils took residents from care homes in Petworth, Pulborough, Steyning and Bognor Regis out for tea and cake, following on from the successful Picnic in the Park event, where residents from Shaw Care Home Group had a picnic in Seaford’s beautiful grounds, and Macari’s café in Bognor Regis provided free drinks.

Students and staff also assisted with a range of social projects, visiting the Aldingbourne Centre, a trust dedicated to helping those with learning disabilities to reach their potential and enjoy life.

Others visited local schools – Oakwood, Conifers and St Peter’s in Shoreham – to lead activities with pupils.

Emma Teague, head of girls’ games, visited St Peter’s with four students to help with a range of numeracy and literacy activities.

In the garden at Oak Grove College in Worthing