Celebrating student volunteering in York
Posted on 11 May 2009
The Higher York Awards for Student Volunteering will see students from across the city recognised for their hard work in support of local good causes.
Among the nominations is work by University of York students to bring the Castle Museum’s collections to life through activities such as making medieval recipes using honey and helping visitors try on replica costumes. The work of the volunteers, among 1,000 from the University who give up their time supporting local projects, has been so successful that the museum has trebled the number of students taking part over the last year.
Kevin Bates, a third year History student who took part in the project, said: “Supporting the work of the Castle Museum has been a hugely rewarding, not to mention enjoyable, experience. Volunteering is a great way for students to broaden their experiences and contribute to the local community.”
Volunteering is a great way for students to broaden their experiences and contribute to the local community
Kevin Bates
The event will see awards presented to students from Askham Bryan College, the University of York, York College and York St John University. Every year, more than 1,500 students across the four institutions give up their time to raise funds, offer their skills or simply provide a much-needed extra pair of hands for local groups.
Louise Rutterford, from York St John University, led a team of 60 volunteers who arranged a special event in February to commemorate the Second World War. Askham Bryan College students have provided horse-riding for disabled groups, helped with animal care on campus and collected litter.
David Moorcroft, from York College, has dedicated over 1,100 hours of his time to a range of volunteering activities, which have included holding the role of Scout Leader in his local Beaver and Scout club for the last three years.
Jessica Grant, Director of Higher York, said: “This award ceremony is an excellent way of recognising the positive and valuable contribution students make to the community of York.”
The event, on Wednesday 13 May, will be hosted by BBC Radio York presenter Elly Fiorentini, with some of the awards being presented by Bill McCarthy, Chief Executive of the City of York Council.
ENDS
Notes to editors:
- Higher York is a partnership between Askham Bryan College, the University of York, York College, York St John University and the City of York Council. More information can be found at www.higheryork.org.
- As part of the ceremony, The University of York Shepherd Group Awards for Student Volunteering will also be presented to recognise outstanding achievements by students supported by The University Community Fund. Find out more at http://www.york.ac.uk/services/careers/volunteering.cfm.