College students’ African adventure

A small group of staff and students went to Presec Secondary School in the port of Tema to begin an educational partnership programme.

Ghana had been selected as the destination after students had investigated Fairtrade as part of their carnival curriculum in year 8 last year.

From researching production and farming, cocoa and bananas were highlighted as important crops in Ghana.

This interest led on to making connections with a school and in April, the first meeting took place.

Teacher Jo Townshend said: “Rye College was warmly welcomed with local dignitaries providing entertainment, feasts and celebrating the schools partnership.

“Students participated in debates on the global economy, marriage, sustainable energy and education.

“They found there were many similarities despite cultural differences and everyone was keen to work hard at school to secure a career in the future.

“Many friendships were made and everyone cannot wait to welcome the Presec staff and students to Rye and continue the educational link.

“After visiting the school, students also toured part of Ghana visiting the Slave Forts at Cape Coast, walked on skywalks over the rainforest canopy, ate breakfast beside crocodiles and made batik fabrics in Tortibo village.

“It was a life changing adventure and one that Rye College hopes to extend to more students.”

Fundraising activities include the East Sussex Contemporary Art Fair, open on 24-26 June at The School Creative Centre where a wide range of fabulous artworks will be for sale throughout the weekend.