When the Awards began in Ireland, they initially focused upon the students of Christian Brothers’ Secondary Schools, but have since been made available to other associated schools and Primary Schools in Ireland. It is the intention of the Edmund Rice Organisation in England to coordinate and develop the involvement of English Secondary Schools in a slightly revamped Outreach Scheme and to encourage participation at Primary level.
The Scheme encourages young people to deliver a valuable service to their community, and expose them to the realities of social injustice and marginalisation. It provides a rare opportunity for young people to make a significant difference to the lives of local community members.
In order to fully convey the ethos of the Organisation, the Scheme involves Reflection sessions to be conducted in school, and also provides the opportunity for the pupil to assess their own work. Such sessions are also aimed at educating pupils about the life and work of Edmund Rice.
Voluntary work may be undertaken individually or in groups, and will be supervised by staff.
A conscious effort has been made to ensure the role of the link intrudes as little as possible on the day-to-day responsibilities of the member of staff. However, it is important that the link is involved in the delivery of reflection and evaluation sessions, and is better placed to assess the needs of the participants on a regular basis during the year.
O God, we thank you for the life of Edmund Rice.
He opened his heart to Christ present in those oppressed by poverty and injustice.
May we follow his example of faith and generosity.
Grant us the courage and compassion of Edmund as we seek to live lives of love and service.
We ask this through Christ our Lord.
Amen.