United World Schools Partnership

We run biennial service expeditions for three weeks at our partner school, Jong, in the north east of Cambodia. Whilst at the school, the girls teach for six hours a day running lessons for primary school aged children in art, music, logic and sport. They also sleep in the school, living in basic conditions and come up with ideas of how to overcome the language barrier by making lessons engaging and fun. Before leaving for the expedition, the team fundraise together for resources for the school.

Aims

The aim of the expedition is both to provide a global and unique experience for girls, broadening their understanding of the world, but also to allow them to see the positive impact that their charitable work can have on a community.

Background

The project was established in 2011, when Redmaids' High fundraised to build Jong School in Ratanakiri, Cambodia. Since then, the school has continued to support Jong and has raised over £25,000 for UWS to keep it sustainable.

A Year 8 pupil cycled from Lands' End to John O'Groats to raise money for UWS, as well for Bristol Children's Hospital.

Impact

As a result of the expedition, many students have gone on to research topics such as Medicine in third world countries, the Khmer Rouge regime and International development as part of their Extended Essays (IB) or Extended Project Qualifications. In addition, a number of students have then volunteered with UWS on gap year programs or after university. 

Pupil Involvement

The expedition is for sixth form students.

Frequency

The expedition runs every two years, with the next expedition team going out in July 2019.