Royal High Community Celebrates International Volunteering Day
Sixth Form, Senior School, Boarding, International
This International Volunteer Day, our students and staff are recognising the importance of volunteering and reflecting on its pivotal role in school life.
Giving back is a significant part of the Royal High ethos, and students readily contribute their time, energy and enthusiasm to an impressive range of local and national causes. From visiting primary schools to support younger pupils with their reading, to fundraising for charities such as Children’s Hospice South West, students engage with organisations that benefit directly from their dedication and time. One Sixth Form student, who currently volunteers at the Bird of Prey Project, commented: “It’s a really positive experience that I always look forward to - I’ve made incredible friends, learnt loads of new skills and gained a lot of confidence through volunteering.”
Between 1 April 2024 and 31 March 2025, Royal High students dedicated 1,638 hours of volunteering as part of their Duke of Edinburgh commitments alone, representing a social value of £10,482 - and this does not capture the many additional hours students contribute outside the programme.
Volunteering is a particularly important part of Royal High’s Sixth Form experience, with many students dedicating their time and energy to service opportunities. Community engagement is further enriched through a diverse programme of electives designed to spark every interest - from Bath Student Parliament and First Aid training to GDST-wide initiatives such as GDST Lead. Together, these opportunities help students develop as well-rounded, outward-looking young adults who understand the positive impact they can have on others.
Heidi-Jayne Boyes, Head of Royal High, commented: “It’s truly inspiring to see so many of our students giving their time to support such a broad range of organisations and causes. Kindness, empathy and service are central to a Royal High education, and the dedication our students show through their volunteering is a testament to those values.”