Herne Bay High School raises funds for Whitstable RNLI

A splendid fundraising effort by students and staff raised over £1000 for Whitstable RNLI!

As a result of RNLI Water Safety Advisor, Gerry Skinner, attending our House assemblies and giving a presentation on water safety and the work of the RNLI, the school sprung into action. Spearheaded by Mrs Taupin, Joss House Student Support Manager, the main event was sponsored rowing, with five machines used on the day with constant rowing by students and staff. Mrs Taupin said, “Because we are a coastal school we are aware of the risks, and the RNLI is a great cause. We also held a raffle with prizes donated by local businesses, and ran a doughnut and cake sale. All events involved all year groups across the school”.

Last Thursday, 26th June, a number of students paid a visit to Whitstable Lifeboat Station to be presented with a certificate of thanks from the institution, and to see the station's B-class lifeboat at first hand.

Year 9 student Robert said, “I am happy that I have seen the boat and met the people involved with the RNLI, and can see how the monies will be spent” Year 7 student Lily, commented, “It is a really important job saving lives and helping to keep our beaches safe”.

Water Safety Advisor, Gerry Skinner, said, “This was a magnificent effort by the students and staff and we thank them for the monies. I have no doubt that the students and staff will carry on their good work and pass on water safety messages, not only to the rest of their families but also to friends from outside their school, and as a result they will help us to prevent incidents and save lives by increasing awareness of beach and sea safety issues”.

_{With thanks to Chris Davey/RNLI Whitstable for the photographs}