‘Giving Back’: Community Responsibility at Ravenscourt Park Prep School

At Ravenscourt Park Prep School, Community Responsibility is a value that permeates every aspect of our school culture. Throughout the year, our children are engaged in a wide range of activities that aim not only to support various causes but also to forge a strong sense of community and instil a deep-seated ethic of giving. We have taken part in initiatives such as ‘Wrap Up London,’ where we collected and donated coats to aid people in need across our city. These activities are organised and led by our student council representatives, exemplifying our commitment to empowering students from a young age. 

Our partnerships with local charities such as West London Action for Children, with whom we’ve raised over £60,000 over the past two years, and Angel Child, part of the Brain Tumour Charity Foundation, allow our students to make tangible impacts beyond the school gates. Events such as singing at local care homes and our collaborative art projects also provide enriching experiences that connect our students with diverse groups within our local community. Everyone is welcome to join in! We have organised two staff and parents charity cycle rides in the past couple of years, and Mr Howes, the Headmaster, ran the London Marathon for WLAC in 2023. 

The response from our students has been overwhelmingly positive. They relish the roles of fundraisers, organisers, and decision-makers. Our recent charity concert for WLAC and our sustainable clothes swap event are examples of initiatives that our students not only participated in but also helped to lead. These experiences enhance their confidence and nurture a sense of responsibility towards their community. 

Integrating giving back into our curriculum further supports these values. In subjects like Art & Design and PSHEE, students explore the role of art in society and the ethical responsibilities of individuals. These discussions are reinforced by practical activities such as creating public murals or organising book drives, enabling students to apply their learning in meaningful ways. Our Year Six Art Prefects assist with the teaching of Art lessons to younger children, as well as helping with whole school community events such as our Open Studio exhibitions. We also regularly donate books to the Children’s Book Project which supports children in schools where they do not have the same access to reading resources. 

Beyond the joy and community spirit these events foster, there is a noticeable benefit towards students’ wellbeing and sense of agency. They develop a better appreciation of their role within the community and a recognition of their capacity to effect change. This empowerment leads to a more inclusive society and instils lifelong values of giving back. 

At RPPS, we are committed to nurturing a community where kindness and giving flourish, understanding that these efforts extend well beyond our school and into the wider world. It’s a commitment that enriches our students’ lives and prepares them to be conscientious and caring global citizens.