Prospectus
Young Ambassadors visit South Africa
A Life changing Experience
Two of our students took part in a visit to Sithengile Senior School in Durban, South Africa. They were a part of a group of 14 Young Ambassadors from West Berkshire School Sport Partnership.
The main task of the trip was to influence South African Zulu children about the Olympic values of:
| Friendship Excellence Inspiration Determination Courage Respect Equality |
and inspire them to take bigger steps in leading their community in sport. It was an emotional trip that involved the founding of a new family link between the South African learners and the English ambassadors.
The Young Ambassadors had been meeting to plan activities that would give a lasting legacy that could be built upon. A unique competition was a main focus where there were to be 3oo learners. The South African learners were taught to take part and lead and embed the Olympic Values.
Other activities took place including an exercise to design and build their own World Cup Stadium. The results were interesting, but the team experience of using critical thinking and problem solving skills were invaluable.
Although they knew before they departed that this would be a trip of a lifetime, our students could not have foreseen just what an impact the visit would have on them. They both said they had a roller coaster of emotions during their stay and found it difficult to put into words how awe inspiring the South African youngsters are. Although they have very little in material terms their sense of community, friendship and unity are immense. Both Young Ambassadors were saddened by the talent that will not have the chance to be developed and by the opportunities that are closed to South African youngsters, but envied certain aspects of South African culture such as respect and unity.
James said;
The week has been amazing. I’m speechless. I have and will continue to change lives for the better.
Steph said;
Although they sang about joy and happiness my eyes still filled with tears and looking around at the rest of us we all felt the same. For me it was pure admiration for everything about them.
Strong friendships were formed and there were tears when the time came to say goodbye.
Part of the Young Ambassador’s role is to pass on their experience to others which both have done by giving a presentation of their visit at an event in Newbury and have given talks to each year group in morning assembly.
