As we head into Easter, St Patrick’s Technical College is preparing to again send a group of students to Cambodia to continue their work in remote villages of Siem Reap.
The students take inspiration from the Pope’s message of Faith In Action – to do more than speak of good deeds, but to put those good intentions into tangible actions which improve the lives of others.
For the last several years the College has sent a group of students and staff to Cambodia in a bid to improve the lives and education of local children. Students have laid water pipelines, created elevated paths so students do not need to wade through floodplains to access school, and upgraded school buildings.
The focus on the trip is for students to use the trade skills they have gained while at the College to improve the lives of children in Cambodia.
The students also donate books, learning resources, dental hygiene packs and even footballs from Central Districts Football Club to the children in the region.
Leading the 2018 trip is Year 12 Coordinator John Neate. Mr Neate said the pilgrimage for the students gave them a greater understanding of the world and enabled them to see how other people live.
“We want our students to broaden their horizons not just in the workplace but emotionally and spiritually as well,’’ Mr Neate said.
The Elizabeth Club of Rotary has donated money to help buy resources and assist students who otherwise could not afford to take part make the life-changing journey.
The College will start fundraising shortly to enable the group to my resources and building materials during this year’s trip. The trip is schedule for October.