WE have just seen the launch of further student-led initiative at Rokeby School writes Year 9 pupil Omar Ansah. Head teacher Charlotte Robinson said: The Citizenship Committee is yet another way that Rokeby is promoting student leadership and responsibi

WE have just seen the launch of further student-led initiative at Rokeby School writes Year 9 pupil Omar Ansah.

Head teacher Charlotte Robinson said: "The Citizenship Committee is yet another way that Rokeby is promoting student leadership and responsibility."

The committee is made up of eight students from Years 8, 9 and 10 who all share one passion - making a real difference in their local and international community.

When asked why he joined, pupil Mustafizur Rahman said: "I saw an opportunity to be a great ambassador for my school and I am very passionate about helping my community."

Though still in its early stages, the Committee has not wasted any time in partnering up with ADRA, a disaster relief charity, to send shoe boxes to Zambia.

The committee's goal is to get at least one shoebox filled with toys and other essentials from every tutor group to help put a smile on an orphaned child's face at Christmas.

Howa Avan-Nomayo, the programme officer, who is leading out on the Smiles for Zambia Shoe Box Appeal spent half a day at Rokeby and met with the committee.

He also had the opportunity to speak to various classes about global poverty development issues.

He commented: "The enthusiasm and commitment shown by the boys for helping less fortunate children thousands of miles away, demonstrates that the students of Rokeby School are truly global citizens."

The committee has lots of ideas for the coming year, which include sponsoring a local charity, partnering with local primary schools to tackle bullying and taking part in a charitable fun run.

"The students have really captured the essence of active Citizenship and I am looking forward to working with them over the coming year," said Louise James, head of citizenship.