CAS In Action
HIGH SCHOOL
The beginning of each year is always a mad rush – sometimes it slows down a bit after a while, sometimes not. This year has certainly been one of those years when the pace has not eased off. Many of the senior students have been very busy getting involved with a wide range of experiences for CAS, ranging from supporting Boosters in the planning and conduct of the Back to School Barbeque and Halloween to supporting local and international NGOs in their very important work. Sometimes the WHY gets a little lost, but overall we can be very proud of our students for their willingness to get involved in making a difference to the world within their influence.
Leadership training.
On the first two days of official classes this year, all Grade 11 students attended a leadership workshop with Kim Shiels. This workshop was designed to challenge our students to think about how and why they lead in their everyday lives and how they might extend these skills and experiences to greater effect. The workshops involved a range of mind-challenges, practical activities and a chance for each student to reflect on what they saw and the benefits of the program. Hopefully this is something that we can sustain and introduce to all our future leaders as they enter Grade 11.
Arnaud Guesrey Foundation
This is a new initiative, introduced to us by Ms Nicky. The Arnaud Guesrey Foundation is an NGO based in Madagascar supporting young people who have been orphaned, victims of crime or simply struggling against poverty and lack of opportunity. Laura Lejman, from Malta, who leads this foundation, spoke to all Grade 11 students about the work that her agency is involved in. Meia and Halle in Grade 11 have taken on the role of supporting this foundation through raising awareness and helping to raise much needed funds. At the Back to School Barbeque they raised over 140 euros, which was presented to Laura when she came to visit. This money would be used to install a solar hot-water unit at the school in Madagascar – immediate benefit for the student and community.
Mr Stephen Crichton - CAS Coordinator
Bye-Bye Plastic Bags
This Verdala NGO is really starting to make an impact. The new members, lead by Michael and Alex are very organised and have already conducted their own beach clean-up in the Pembroke area. During the Mid-Term break the group also attended a programme at Gnejna Beach to release local Green Sea Turtles and to conduct a beach clean-up, along with members of a number of other schools. This programme was organised by Eco-School Malta, which is now working closely with the school to try to raise awareness and action on waste reduction in our daily lives.