The academy's student council have decided to select three charities to be the main beneficiaries of staff and student fund-raising activities.

The academy's student council have decided to strengthen the academy's links with charities by selecting three charities to be the main beneficiaries of staff and student fund-raising activities.

The idea, first suggested by Year 10 student Harry Hutt and supported by other members of the council, is to choose one local, one national and one international charity to support so that money is spread between three very different but equally important organizations.

By adopting the three charities, it is hoped that students will learn more about the work of these organizations and follow their progress over time, giving a greater sense of empathy and understanding about the vital work they do in helping others.

This idea follows news from Mr Rodway that money raised by Macmillan staff, students and supporters has enabled the Karandisi Trust in Kenya to appoint a second full time teacher for the school where Mr Rodway spent time last term.

The student council also felt that with so many charities reporting feeling the pinch because of the economic downturn, it would be a good thing to raise their profiles and remind others of how crucial even the smallest contributions are in supporting important work.

To find out more about the work of two local charities the academy has supported in the past, students went along to both Zoe's Place and Teesside Hospice where they met and interviewed staff. You can watch these interviews again by logging on to 'Academy Broadcast'.

Zoe's Place Interview

Teesside Hospice Interview