Launceston Students Change Lives on Uganda Trip, Present Scholarships to African Partner School

19 Students From Launceston College Visit Partner School in Uganda

This summer, 19 students from Launceston College, part of the Athena Learning Trust, embarked on an unforgettable trip to Bunjakko Island Vocational School in Uganda. Accompanied by three members of staff, the students stayed at Mutima Cottage, an accommodation recently completed thanks to years of fundraising by the college.

The trip marked a significant step in the school’s ongoing partnership with the Ugandan institution, where Launceston students participated in numerous community projects and presented scholarships to support their African peers.

Supporting the Local Community and School Projects

During their time at Bunjakko, the students rolled up their sleeves to support a variety of initiatives aimed at improving the school’s facilities. This included refurbishing and constructing additional toilets for the female students, pumping the existing toilets, and painting the interior and exterior of the staff quarters.

In addition, the group took on some agricultural tasks by making and planting raised beds, as well as painting the school boat. Many hours were spent in the Design and Technology Classroom, where students learned new skills and worked on items using sewing machines provided by Launceston Rotary.

The students also contributed to important lessons on girls’ health, teaching how boys can be allies to girls. The team distributed toiletry bags to every student and staff member and visited local homes, delivering care packages filled with food and household essentials as part of a community outreach effort.

Scholarships Presented to Ugandan Students

A highlight of the trip was the presentation of 53 scholarships, ensuring that the education costs of the Ugandan students would be covered for the next year. This moment marked a significant contribution towards the future educational opportunities of the children at Bunjakko.

Alongside their hard work, the Launceston group took time to enjoy local attractions, including a boat ride on Lake Victoria, one of Africa’s Great Lakes, and a visit to the equator. The students also cherished the vibrant evening singing and dancing, with one reporting that the sound could often be “deafening.”

Principal Matthew Thompson Praises Students

Matthew Thompson, Principal of Launceston College, expressed his pride in the students for their efforts, commenting that trips like this help instil a sense of adventure and leave a lasting impact on those involved. He highlighted the kindness and enthusiasm displayed by the group during their time in Uganda.

For more information on Launceston College and its educational offerings, you can visit the school’s website. Applications for secondary school places are now open until 31st October.

Launceston College is rated “Good” by Ofsted across several categories, including the quality of education and sixth form provision. Ofsted noted that all pupils, including those with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND), follow a broad curriculum, building on their knowledge logically to match future aspirations.