Our mission: improving education, facilities and welfare for children in The Gambia

In March 2026, I will be travelling to The Gambia alongside fellow Academy members to support schools and nurseries in some of the country’s most disadvantaged communities. This will be the third trip the Academy has made to The Gambia, and I feel incredibly fortunate to be taking part this time and contributing to work that has already begun to make a real difference.

Our focus is simple but powerful: to help improve the educational environment, basic facilities and overall living conditions for children who face significant barriers to learning. During our visit, we will be working directly with schools to provide essential items such as shoes, uniforms, books and stationery, while also improving the physical conditions of classrooms to create safer, more supportive learning spaces.

In addition, we will be installing boreholes to improve access to clean, reliable water, helping to address one of the most fundamental challenges faced by schools and communities in the region. Access to clean water not only improves health and hygiene but also allows children to attend school more consistently and focus on their education.

The Gambia is one of the smallest countries in Africa and among the poorest in the world. Despite recent progress, more than half of the adult population remains illiterate, and many children still lack access to the resources and infrastructure needed for a meaningful education. For these children, school is not just a place to learn — it’s a pathway to opportunity, stability and hope.

We believe that every child deserves access to education, clean water and the basic tools to succeed, regardless of where they are born. This mission is about more than improving buildings or supplies; it’s about restoring dignity, confidence and possibility for children who deserve a fair start in life.

Where your donation goes

To be completely transparent, all members of the group are fully self-funding their own travel and accommodation costs. This means that every penny donated will go directly towards improving conditions for the children, including educational resources, classroom improvements, water infrastructure and practical support for schools and nurseries.

My personal fundraising target is £2,000. Combined with funds raised by the wider Academy, your support will have a tangible and lasting impact on the lives of these children and their communities.

Every contribution — no matter the size — helps create meaningful change. Your generosity can help open doors, improve health, and give children the chance to learn, grow and build a brighter future.

Thank you so much for your support. Together, we can make a real difference for the children of The Gambia.