ESOL Students Become “Warehouse Warriors” in Local Foodbank Effort
Bournemouth and Poole College’s ESOL department have been out to support people facing hunger across the local area, taking part in an ambitious donation drive and volunteering across two intensive warehouse days at the Boscombe Foodbank.
The project began with a powerful presentation delivered by Niamh Tickner from the Foodbank, who spoke to more than 150 ESOL students about the charity’s history, how it operates, and the growing need for support in the community. Inspired by what they learned, students launched a competitive college wide collection, dubbed “the biggest harvest” to gather as many essential items as possible for families in crisis.
Their efforts resulted in an impressive 153.7kg of donated food, all of which was delivered directly to the Foodbank.
From there, the students didn’t stop. Volunteers from multiple ESOL levels rolled up their sleeves for two hands on warehouse days, taking on tasks such as sorting donations, labelling crates, organising storage areas, and creating packs of tea, coffee and sugar to distribute to local households.
Staff described the students as “hardworking, humble and absolute powerhouses in the warehouse”, noting the impressive assembly line system they quickly developed. Many students also chose to “Pay it Forward” with acts of kindness at The Garden Rooms Café.
For many of the volunteers, it offered not only a chance to contribute to the community that is supporting them, but also an opportunity to build confidence, practice English in a real world setting, and make new connections.
Some students have expressed a desire to continue volunteering with the Foodbank on a regular basis.
Claire, ESOL Lecturer at Bournemouth and Poole College, praised the commitment shown: “The students worked incredibly hard and truly embraced the opportunity to give back. Their enthusiasm and teamwork were inspiring.”
With their impressive contribution and willingness to serve, Bournemouth and Poole College’s ESOL students have made an amazing impact and have demonstrated a strong sense of community.
