The Big Help Out at Thurlbear School

Earlier this month, as part of The Big Help Out campaign, thousands of organisations and community groups across the country invited people to join them and find out how rewarding volunteering can be. 

One such organisation was Thurlbear School in Somerset, who invited members of their community to come along and lend a hand with some painting, gardening and general maintenance. The activity, organised by the school’s PTA (Parent Teacher Association), was attended by over 25 people, including our Volunteering Development Lead Nina Hurst Jones, and Vice Chair, Emily Taylor.  

Emily, who is also chair of Thurlbear PTA, commented:   

“The Big Help Out was a great way to shine a light on the amazing impact volunteers can have on local people and the local community.  

“Organising an activity at Thurlbear as part of this initiative demonstrated the great work, we can do to benefit us all. It was a wonderful way to get the community together to work towards a shared goal and provided a real sense of wellbeing. Volunteering is a great way to give back, meet people from a variety of different backgrounds and shape your own experiences. I would recommend that everyone gives it a go!” 

Steve Gillan, Head Teacher at Thurlbear School, said: 

“The support of our parents, friends of the school and the wider local community is integral, helping us to maintain the site not only means we can focus on the education, but that we also provide great surroundings in which students can thrive. The Big Help Out was a great way to get everyone involved and create a ‘whole school approach’. You know The Big Help Out reinforces great community spirit when even your former pupils – now at secondary school – come back to get involved!” 

If you are looking for new volunteers to support your organisation, you can advertise your opportunities here- www.sparkachange.org.uk 

The Big Help Out may be over, but there are still lots of ways to get involved in volunteering in Somerset. Just click the link below to get started.