On Sunday 25 January, we were thrilled to host a training day with 18 Sixth Form students from St Edward’s College, who attended in preparation for becoming volunteers on the Growing Hearts programme. The six-week programme will begin next month and will be delivered to primary pupils, grounded in the Edmund Rice values of compassion, inclusion and resilience.
Growing Hearts is a fun and meaningful programme designed to strengthen pupils’ wellbeing, confidence, emotional awareness and sense of community. Through the programme, Sixth Form students will act as inspiring young leaders, mentors and role models, giving children the opportunity to learn from enthusiastic older students who are passionate about supporting younger pupils.
This programme brings benefits for everyone involved:
Primary pupils gain confidence, encouragement and positive peer mentoring
Student volunteers develop leadership, communication and service skills
The students themselves shared that they wanted to take part in order to develop confidence and leadership, give back to their local community, connect with and mentor younger pupils, and feel inspired to continue volunteering in the future. They also spoke about wanting to make a difference, change lives, and act with collective responsibility.
We are proud of their commitment and look forward to seeing the programme come to life in the weeks ahead.
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.