School News From Saint Kentigern College

The students from Saint Kentigern Boys’ and Girls’ ‘Schools recently took part in a ‘life changing experience’, (as they described it) taking part in the inaugural parent and student service trip to Nadi, Fiji. The intention of the trip was to complete a medical centre in Nawaka Village and to offer help at two primary schools; Nawaka Village Primary and Arya Samaj School, a very different type of trip to those usually experienced. As a destination, Fiji conjures up images of beach-side resorts, warm coral coasts and idyllic tropical islands but this was a much more gratifying type of experience.

The rewards of serving in this Fijian community and making a positive difference to their lives were very real and felt deeply by all members of the team, students, parents and staff alike and one they will always remember.

Similarly, the 15 students who accompanied Mr and Mrs Goebel recently, on the service trip to Vanuatu all felt extremely lucky to have been chosen for a journey that opened their eyes to village life on a Pacific island away from the tourist resorts. In the wake of Cyclone Pam that tore through the island group earlier in the year, they weren’t exactly sure what to expect but they soon discovered Melanesian hospitality and were quickly made to feel at home as they set about their tasks for the week.

The students were initially shocked at the devastation wreaked by the cyclone but soon set about their work each day with a variety of activities including building tables and a volleyball court, painting murals as well as taking the classes. As they said, it was good to be reminded of what was really important in life and it was truly inspiring to be surrounded by such beautiful, loving, happy, caring people and it was an experience to never be forgotten. The children were wonderful company and it was clear that what we donated would make a big difference for Sama Sama Rainbow School.

Great stories from a great school. For more information please go to http://www.saintkentigern.com .