Students have been praised for their volunteering efforts in the community at a special awards ceremony at the University of Bedfordshire.
Around a dozen students have been highly commended for their hard work, with many clocking up more than 100 hours service with local charities, schools and organisations.
Pro Vice Chancellor Professor Kate Jacques presented the awards. She said: “The students have made an enormous difference to the lives of people in Bedfordshire and are wonderful ambassadors for the University and their generation. It’s important that we recognise their contribution to the community and encourage them to continue their good work.”
Student volunteers receiving awards included:
Beata Sulzycka, a Business Management student, who has helped Polish students improve their English at a local primary school
Tom Roberts, who is studying Sport and Exercise Science, has volunteered at Headway – a brain injury charity – where he has helped clients walk and improve their balance
Andrew Buffham, an English and Education student, has been volunteering as a teaching assistant and now plans to become a teacher
Nick Hughes, who is studying Sociology, volunteers as a street rangers in his spare time, and enjoyed his experience so much, he will be applying to become a police officer when he graduates
Emma Lau, a Sport and PE student, has been volunteering with BeeZee Bodieschildren’s club which helps youngsters to lead healthy lives and lower obesity rates
Daniel Bailey, studying Applied Sport Science, has linked up with the ‘interACTIVE’ scheme run by Bedford Borough Council to get young people involved in sport
Caralyne Donoghue, studying an MSc in Physical Activity and Well Being, has been volunteering with Bedford East Community Mental Health Team helping patients with life skills and nutrition
Sarah Denton, also studying an MSc in Physical Activity and Well Being, has been helping the National Step'O'Meter Programme encourage patients/clients to become more active
Johanna Williams, a Childhood and Youth Studies student, has been supporting expectant and new mothers at ante-natal and breastfeeding classes.
The University’s Volunteering Placement Service aims to provide a link between the University and the wider community and to offer students opportunities to develop themselves through voluntary and project work.
Volunteer Co-ordinator Aafke Whelan said: “Volunteering is a great way to learn new skills, build personal confidence and gain work experience through working on projects that make a real difference to people's lives.”
For further information about student volunteering opportunities visit careers.beds.ac.uk/volunteer
