Hylands students raise £1,000 for charity

Hylands Year 9 students have just taken part in their First Give Programme Final. First Give partners with schools to inspire young people to make a positive change in their communities. The programme encourages students to connect with local charities, understand social issues, and take meaningful action to support those in need.

In the final, each team showcased the social causes they had passionately supported through awareness campaigns, fundraising, and acts of social action. Our students spoke clearly, confidently, and with passion, sharing presentation responsibilities seamlessly among team members. They rose to the challenge magnificently, presenting and taking challenging questions in front of the entire year group, multiple staff members, external visitors, and a panel of judges.

We were honoured to welcome to the judging panel Sally Medd, Volunteer Centre Manager, Chelmsford CVS, and Barry Knight, Chelmsford City Councillor . They joined our school judges - Mr White, Head of School, Ms Field, Head of Key Stage 4, and Ms Parnaby, Head of Year 9.

It was a very close competition, but 9A emerged victorious, securing the £1000 prize for The Change Project. Their team, represented by five students, impressed the judges with their compelling presentation and commitment to their cause.

Judges’ commendations also went to:

• 9D, represented by five students, for their food swap initiative in support of Chelmsford Food Bank.

• 9H, represented by three students, for organising a darts competition as part of their creative social action project.

We would like to congratulate all the students who took part. Their hard work, courage, and commitment made this event truly special, and they should all be incredibly proud of themselves.