Beyond the classroom: How Wolgarston High students are shaping their community
Every year, Wolgarston High School dedicates a day to both promote and celebrate the importance of giving back to its local communities. This year’s annual Wolgarston Community Day took place on Friday 4th July and was organised by Mr Matthew Skinner (Assistant Head and Teacher of PE) and Mr Ben Smith (Teacher of English).
Over 230 students were split into teams and were based throughout Penkridge, Brewood, Coven, Cannock, Brocton, Dunston and Wheaton Aston. Wolgarston students spent the day gardening, painting, litter picking, cleaning and tidying up. Locations included Beau Desert OEC where students assisted wardens, Brocton Football and Cannock Hockey Club, Monckton Recreation Centre, Penkridge church, local schools and allotments.
“Community Day is to encourage our students to become active stakeholders in their communities by showing them the positive impact they can have,” said Mr Skinner, “It is about our students learning lifelong skills, taking pride in their communities and leaving a positive legacy.”
“It has been an absolute pleasure being out in our local community last Friday, the students worked incredibly hard alongside the volunteers on the local projects. One of our values at Wolgarston is around having an active role in our community and our annual event optimises this,” said Mr Dan Boden (Headteacher), “I am so proud of the range of tasks that have been achieved by our students, from laying new paths, clearing up local church yards, as well as creating new visual displays for Wolgarston and other schools in our area. No job was too small for anyone. Well done to the whole of Year 9.”
"It was wonderful seeing our students collaborating with staff and members of the community to make their environment better, no matter the nature of the work,” said Mr Smith, “The pupils' work ethic and attitude to the day impresses every year, and we were very proud seeing the difference they made with their hard work. I look forward to more successful Community Days in future but think this year have left a hard act to follow!"
