HCS Sixth Formers' African adventure
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By Year 13 pupil reporter Lucy M
Hereford Cathedral School pupils got to experience a world far removed from their own on a recent trip to Kenya. The 10-day trip during half term involved a visit to a local school and hospital, as well as a safari.
The whole adventure was organised in conjunction with the charity Etatu, which aims to improve the lives of young people in Msambweni. Before they ventured to Nairobi airport, the students collected pencil cases and bags from other students to give to the children at the schools. The Etatu team organised a sports day for the local children and HCS pupils, and even teachers Mrs Pizii and Mr Higgins took part.
Whilst in Kenya, the pupils learned many new skills. One of them included a lesson in Swahili and a visit to a maternity ward in a Kenyan hospital. This experience stuck particularly with Year 13 student Willis C, who commented: “It gave us a real insight into the life of a doctor in a busy hospital. Shadowing the pharmacist throughout the day opened my eyes to the hard work they put in to get to that position.”
The safari in Tsavo East in Voi, included sightings of giraffe, elephant and lion, was the highlight for some of the pupils, with Tom J saying: “It was absolutely awe-inspiring, and will stay with me for the rest of my life.”
On the last day of the trip the group visited an orphanage in Msambweni, where Year 12 pupil Liberty M, who is European Junior Jiu-Jitsu Champion, entertained the children by showing them some basic martial arts moves.
The trip proved to be a true eye-opener for some. Liberty M said: “It was really inspiring and it was so rewarding to see the children’s smiles when we organised the sports day for them. It truly makes you realise how lucky we are and not take anything for granted.” Imogen B said the trip made her realise how lucky she is, adding: “It was the best experience of my life.”
More photos from the Kenya trip can be found on our Facebook page.