A thriving programme of community service runs for pupils in Blocks 1 and 2 (Years 7 and 8) on Wednesday afternoons. All pupils are expected to take part, to give something back to the school and wider community.
Collaborations with local organisations are developed to create mutually beneficial partnerships. Dunhurst pupils’ involvement is seen as part of their education in citizenship and personal and social development.
Community service opportunities are available both in and out of school. Off-site opportunities include:
- Hollywater School – a community special school based in Bordon, Hampshire, for children with moderate learning difficulties, where Dunhurst pupils help with arts and crafts, cooking sessions and play activities.
- Steep CE Primary School – the local state primary school, where Dunhurst pupils read to younger pupils, listen to pupils reading and help in the library.
At Bedales, Dunhurst pupils can volunteer at Bedales Nursery & Pre-prep, Dunannie, interacting, helping and supporting children - and acting as excellent role models - in the playground at morning break, in the Orchard at lunchtime and in the Nursery.
There are also Outdoor Work gardening projects in the community. For those pupils who are heavily committed to sports fixtures on Wednesday afternoons, there are opportunities for them to take part in on-site service or Outdoor Work projects at other times during the week.
Head of Community Service: Jonathan Peers