The challenge for Year 9 was to learn about the social issues facing the local community and research those charities providing crucial support. Students then split into groups, with each selecting one of the local charities. After meeting and consulting with the charities, each group devised and delivered a social action plan to support their charity.

One thousand pounds was up for grabs from First Give for one of the charities, as the judging panel of Councillors Pat Tedder and Liz Noble, together with teachers James Greggor and James Butler listened to their presentations. The team representing the Grace Dear Trust which campaigns to prevent teen suicide, won.

Graham Dear from the charity was able to attend the final and had high praise for the group, who made an awareness training film and campaign. He was particularly impressed that they had been able to get across the key message that ‘it’s OK to not be OK’ and that as a school, Gordon’s has such a good range of mental health support strategies.

Also listening to the First Give presentations were representatives from the other charities picked by students - Carol Ellis from White Lodge, Gemma Johnston from The Hope Hub Surrey Heath and Irina Bush from Catalyst Support. Congratulations to all the students taking part.