Another fun-filled, inspiring and unique day at Reach Cambridge has come to an end, with a jaw-dropping total of more than £2600 being raised for the charity SABRE during the charity auction this evening. Over the last few days, students and staff members alike have been signing up with promises or pledges to be auctioned off; these ranged from drawing someone’s portrait, to giving a German lesson, to an exclusive roof-top tour of King’s Chapel provided by our wonderful supervisors Hannah and Amy! It was wonderful to see the enthusiasm and generosity of the students as they bid against each other for the privilege of being brought breakfast in bed or for the chance to get a guided punting tour from some of the supervisors.
After the auction, we were treated to what was almost definitely something entirely new to Reach Cambridge: a Russian rap concert. One of the students took it upon himself to organise, publicise and of course perform in the concert: by charging a £2 entry fee, he raised a hugely impressive £100 for SABRE through his own initiative and admirable self-publicity skills. Despite the inability of the audience (and myself as a student reading Russian) to understand a word of the lyrics, everyone present was swept along by the performer’s enthusiasm and had a great time.
Earlier in the day, after classes as usual, students had the opportunity to either play some sport or go to a personal statements workshop. With the sun shining over Downing College, the sport session was well attended; whilst most were drawn to the football pitch, many of the students also played some volleyball, tennis and basketball. The personal statements workshop was also very successful; some of the supervisors offered general advice on writing a personal statement and answered some of the common questions that arise. The evening lecture today gave us all a fascinating insight into the world of the UK’s first black, female prison officer; Annmarie travelled from London to speak about her time in the prison service and some of the challenges she faced with both inmates and other staff members, as well as her charitable work with ex-offenders. The students took great interest and asked lots of pertinent questions, which was very encouraging to see.
The rest of the week promises yet more excitement and activity, but today huge congratulations should be given to Sanjukta and the Community Outreach team for organising such a successful charity auction, as well as to all the students and supervisors who generously got involved!
Written by Robbie, Supervisor
Residential study programs for 14-18 year olds in Cambridge, UK.
