Fundraising for Borneo

In July 2024, a group of adventurous students embarked on a life-changing journey to Borneo, where they not only gained invaluable experiences but also made a significant impact on the local communities they visited – read all about their exciting adventures here. Having seen some of the challenges faced by those communities, the group wanted to do something to help and decided to do some fundraising for them upon their return.

Fundraising ideas were formed and the 10th April was chosen as the date for action! They decided on a creative mix of events that brought the school community together. They organised a Wear your Own Clothes day, a bake sale and various other fun activities that included a penalty shootout and “Pie a sixth former”. Those that attended the last Borneo trip, also took on the physically demanding challenge of climbing the school’s stairwell over 300 times to matching the height of Mount Kinabalu (4095m) for sponsorship.

In total they have raised almost £1100 which is a huge amount of money in the region! The money raised will be directed toward two incredibly worthy causes that will profoundly benefit the Borneo communities.

A portion of the funds will go to the Sepilok Orangutan Sanctuary, a vital organization dedicated to the conservation of orangutans, one of the most endangered species in the world. This sanctuary plays a crucial role in not just providing care for these magnificent creatures, but also in educating the public about the need for wildlife preservation. The funds will assist with feeding and protecting the orangutans, ensuring their survival for future generations to admire.

Additionally, the students have chosen to support the village of Kiau by providing essential equipment to their Health Clinic which will help improve healthcare access for the local population. Many residents in this remote area face significant challenges in receiving medical treatment, often needing to travel for over an hour to find proper care. With the financial support from the fundraising activities, the clinic will be better equipped to serve the needs of its patients, making a tangible difference in their lives. The money will also be used to help repair the village football pitch, by contributing to the restoration of this facility, the students are helping to create a safe and engaging environment for the local youth.

These students have set a shining example of how collective effort can bring about meaningful change. Their commitment to making the world a better place is commendable, reminding us all of the power of compassion and the importance of giving back. We look forward to sharing photos and stories from the next school trip to Borneo, to showcase the positive changes made possible through their hard work and dedication.