Pupils from Lewes Old Grammar School are lending a helping hand to Landport Foodbank this year, as part of their ongoing student citizenship programme.

A group of Year 9 students recently met with Debbie Twitchen, Chair of Landport Residents’ Association and Landport Foodbank Manager, to discuss their new project, which will see them collecting food donations across Lewes for those in need.

Students heard about the day-to-day workings of the initiative, in line with the recent rise in unemployment and redundancies in the local area. They also attended the Foodbank to help unpack their donations.

Debbie showed an example food parcel to pupils to underscore the importance of making quality food donations that help families to maintain a healthy and well-balanced diet.

In response, students from LOGS have devised their own system to collect a variety of donations – not just beans or pasta. Each year group has been delegated a different area of responsibility, with Year 10 collecting toiletries and year 9 focusing on breakfast items.

Caroline White, PSHE, Religious Studies and Learning Support teacher at LOGS, explained: “The students have really taken the lead on this project and we’ve been inundated with donations. It’s been inspiring to see them using their group work and collaborative skills to such a positive end. We searched for projects in the area and the Foodbank caught our attention after we learned that the Lewes centre had closed down. The students were aware food banks existed, but not in Sussex – which is generally considered an affluent area.”

Student Charlie Ramsay said: “I was so surprised to see all the food there – I’ve never seen so much soup! It made me realise how much people need this service in the community and I was pleased to help out.”

Students will continue to collect donations for the project throughout the spring and summer term.