The project is centred around supporting the School’s global charity this year, Charity Pearl The Gambia, which is working on making improvements to day to day life in the Brufut area of The Gambia. The charity’s current focus is building an Education Centre for local children and parents, and in October 2019 Sixth Form students will be travelling to Brufut to see the fundraising in action, meeting the children and running activities.

At the charity dinner, held to raise funds for the Education Centre, pupils, parents, staff and guests enjoyed a curry dinner provided by the local Gandhi Indian Restaurant, a quiz on The Gambia, as well as African drumming from the accomplished Hartbeats. Malick Jeng, Tourism Destination Manager for the Gambia Tourism Board, attended the evening evening - we were delighted to welcome him - even if he did give away a few of the quiz answers!

Claire Samber, Claires Court Operations Manager and Chair of the Sixth Form PTA, said:

“For one evening, the Sixth Form Sports Hall was turned into a small part of Gambia! It was fantastic to see everyone enjoying themselves, learning about The Gambia and participating in the West African drumming. A night to remember and a great way to launch our commitment to this project and the Sixth Form visit in October!”

The School has already provided £4000 towards the funding of the Education Centre and digging of a bore hole which will provide clean water to the community.

Robert Leder, UK Representative of Charity Pearl The Gambia, said:

“Thank you for your support so far. What an improvement to the lives of so many people!”

Find out more about the project by visiting the Gambia blog and take a look at the gallery from the event.