KIDDERMINSTER’S Baxter College has received a £2,000 boost towards its £12,000 appeal to give students the opportunity to complete the Duke Of Edinburgh (DofE) Bronze Award.
The £2,175 contribution from Margaret Westwood Memorial Charity raises the total donated to over £10,000.
Chair of the charity Peter Sugg has expressed his commitment to the welfare of Worcestershire young people, and said; “We are delighted to support the school’s appeal, offering students the chance to build skills, confidence, self esteem and resilience through the DofE scheme.”
The internationally-renowned award teaches young people valuable life skills through sections such as volunteering and an expedition, which Baxter College began offering to year nine students during the pandemic.
Covid constraints sabotaged the overnight camping element of the expedition and meant the trip had to be split into two separate days, but when restrictions were lifted the college did not have sufficient equipment for all students.
Science teacher and DofE leader Andrew Macpherson said: “This is a massive boost to our appeal and we are deeply indebted to the charity supporting us.”
Other supporters
The appeal has attracted considerable donations in the past year, including £5,000 from the Sebright Foundation, £1,000 from Bewdley Rotary Club, £1,000 from a parent and £900 from Kidderminster and District Lions Club.
Additional donations have been welcomed from a Kidderminster resident and the Royal Antediluvian Order of Buffaloes.
Mr Macpherson added “We are so grateful to all those who have generously responded to our appeal.
“It has already allowed us to take 80 students on the camping expedition this last summer and more students will benefit in future years.
“We hope we can reach our target soon and any donations will be most appreciated.”
Any organisations, businesses or individuals who may be able to donate should call 01562 74152 to reach Mr Macpherson at Baxter College.
Story by Aidan Kilcullen.
