Trip to Kenya impacts students at Lift Winton school

Students from Lift Winton in Andover travelled to Kenya to support Eileen Ngochoch Primary School through building work, classroom activities and wider school life.

During their time at the school, the students helped prepare classroom floors for tiling and contributed to construction projects before the classroom was completed and handed back for use.

Handing out supplies. (Image: Lift Winton)

They also spent time supporting learning in the classroom and joined pupils in a school sports day, taking part in football and athletics activities.

The group delivered donated items including clothing, food and educational resources.

In total, they provided 358 books to the school, supporting reading development and improving the use of learning spaces.

School staff reported that the new books have increased pupils’ engagement with reading during the day.

Marie Wilson, trip leader and teacher, said: "This was an incredibly powerful experience for our students.

"They worked with energy and commitment at our partner school and embraced every aspect of the trip, building strong friendships along the way.

"It was something special to see them grow as confident, caring young people, determined to make a real difference."

Among the children benefitting from the donations was Sheila, who received a pair of shoes and returned to school with renewed confidence.

The trip also included a range of cultural and educational experiences.

Students visited the Equator, the Great Rift Valley, a tea and coffee plantation, Thomson's Falls, Lake Nakuru National Park, Menengai Crater and a giraffe sanctuary where they hand-fed giraffes.

The school said the trip helped students develop independence, teamwork and cultural understanding.

They thanked parents and supporters for their contributions, including fundraising support and donations of books and essential items.

Myles Preston, principal at Lift Winton, said: "This experience has given students a deeper understanding of different communities while allowing them to make a genuine contribution.

"They return with increased confidence, perspective and pride in what they achieved.

"I couldn’t be prouder of each and every one of them."