Helping to grow a stronger community
At James Cropper, we’re deeply committed to supporting our local community – whether that’s via environmental initiatives, by directly donating to organisations, or through working with schools in the area to help them engage in community projects. The latter of which is something we are incredibly passionate about, as it allows us to support worthwhile causes in the area while developing essential skills among students.
One such collaboration is with The Queen Katherine School, just down the road from us in Kendal. Since the start of this academic year, we’ve helped to get the school’s students out of the classroom to spend some time helping other members of the community.
Some of the green-fingered students recently rolled up their sleeves on a visit to Stonecross Nursing Home, where they planted flowers and shrubs in the garden for residents to enjoy. The school had never done this before, but it proved to be a hit, with students and residents alike having a hugely enjoyable day.
Other projects we’ve supported the school with this year have included working with older people, including dementia patients – offering Christmas carol singing, board game sessions and afternoon tea – as well as organising conference-style events, workshops and competitions for primary school children.
Tracey Ellis, Teacher and School Council Coordinator at The Queen Katherine School, said: “Having the support of James Cropper means we’re able to think imaginatively about working within the community – and the skills development in the students is amazing!
“The students have grown in confidence and expanded on skills in teamwork, decision making, prioritising tasks and public speaking. They have also all been pushed out of their comfort zones and have tried something new, which is fantastic. They’ve been willing to take risks, to have a go and to not be afraid to make mistakes – and, crucially, how to evaluate such mistakes and learn from them.
“It’s been a fantastic year and all of the students now feel better equipped and able to demonstrate their skills to future employers.”
We’re delighted that the students, as well as those people they’ve helped, have benefitted so greatly from our partnership with the school and we look forward to continuing to work closely with them in the future.
