Year 9 Young Leaders from Archbishop Holgate School in York, hosted a coffee afternoon bringing together local residents and church members for an afternoon of entertainment.  All members of the 201 strong year group played a part in organising the event from creating the publicity, decorating the hall, baking cakes and serving tea and coffee.

Student leader Harrison Pincombe,who compered the afternoon, explained that the students felt that this was their opportunity ‘to give back to the community with laughter, cake and who doesn’t like a bit of bingo!’  Displays showcasing the students’ work as part of the Young Leaders Award were available to see, with Malala Yousafzaiand Emily Simmonds among people that have inspired Year 9 to make a difference and overcome life’s challenges.  A short video was shown charting the individual and school volunteering challenges that students have carried out, including providing food and talking with homeless people and thanking teachers for all their hard work with buns and treats.

Later in the afternoon, Vast Magic Band took to the stage to provide music, while residents’ wits were tested with the general knowledge quiz prepared by students.  The afternoon was rounded off with a raffle, the proceeds of which will go to support the redevelopment of Heslington Park safe play area, and a game of Bingo.

Students Hope McMaw and Alice Wainwright explained that “It is nice to get people together in the community to socialise who maybe wouldn’t normally be together.  We hope they really enjoy their afternoon”. RE teacher Jasdip Appleyard said that through the Award students have “grown greatly in confidence and made a fantastic difference.  They have been encouraged to stop and think, organising the whole afternoon themselves and I am super proud of their achievements”.

Elizabeth Howat, Secondary Strategic Lead at the Youth Trust said,

“The students have worked really hard to put on such a fantastic event and the residents have really enjoyed the opportunity to be in school; see young people at their best and hear about the great work they have done through the Young Leaders Award. Well done Year 9!”

Feedback after the event was really positive, with one guest writing to say,

“It was great to see the values you profess being put into action, with everybody working together and really enjoying doing something for others.”