This week, Emmaus South Wales was honoured to attend Bryntirion Comprehensive School’s First Give School Final, where Year 8 students showcased their dedication to local charities through inspiring social action projects.
The event was part of the First Give Programme, a UK-based educational initiative that equips young people with the skills, confidence, and opportunity to make a difference in their communities by supporting local charities through social action and advocacy.
Our trustee Lorraine and companion Tony joined fellow charity representatives, staff, and students to witness the powerful culmination of months of hard work. As part of the First Give Programme, pupils from eight classes chose and supported local charities, aiming to raise awareness and compete for a £1,000 grant awarded to the most impactful project.
Students passionately presented their projects, highlighting the positive change they aim to create in their communities. It was evident that the First Give Programme had sparked a strong sense of purpose, empathy, and social responsibility among them.
“We were incredibly impressed by the creativity, commitment, and passion shown by the students,” said Lorraine. “It was moving to see young people speak so confidently about social issues and the causes they care about. It gives us great hope for the future.”
Following the event, the Head of Skills at Bryntirion Comprehensive School, Mr Lloyd Rowe, extended a warm thank you: “Your presence helped make the event a meaningful and memorable occasion for our students. It was inspiring for the young people to see representatives from the charity sector supporting their efforts and celebrating the impact they hope to make in their communities.”
We are incredibly grateful to Bryntirion Comprehensive School and the First Give Programme for their commitment to empowering the next generation of changemakers—and we’re proud to have been part of this special day.