A TEN strong group of staff and students from St Columba's High are getting ready to fly out to Uganda to help build a school classroom.

Seven senior pupils and three staff members are in the process of getting their vaccinations while arranging their final fundraiser for the end of this month.

Teachers Jamie Parker, Kieran O’Neill and Jennifer Higgins will accompany David Doolan, Luke Parker, Duncan Thacker, Katie Holland, Heather Wilson, Kara Leck and Leah McEleny on the trip in June.

Collectively the group have raised more than £2,000 by hosting a race night, waxing legs and bag packing.

The pupils have all raised more than half the amount needed they each need with Luke busking and the girls hosting bake sales.

Kara said: “It really is a once in a lifetime opportunity.

"It is something totally different that will help when applying for jobs.

"Doing it with friends and knowing we are helping out makes it even better.”

The pupils are looking forward to seeing a new country and experiencing its culture, religions and scenery.

Mr O’Neill said: “It will be a great experience for them.

"They will get to see how tough life can be for people and help to increase the children’s chances in education by providing a new classroom.

“We will be there for 18 days but this will only be for part of the project.

"I am not sure if we will see it completed but we will know we have done out bit to help and cover the cost of it.

“The pupils will be labourers for our time there helping to lay bricks.

"It will be hard work but I know they can do it.

“We will be working each day from around 9am until noon before taking a break to stay out of peak sun and then work for a few more hours from around 2pm until 5pm.

“Some of the pupils will stay behind each day to clean the house and prepare meals, they will be helping with everything.”

The final group fundraiser will be a quiz night, held in the school on Friday at 7.30pm.

Mr O’Neill said: “We are all really proud of the pupils, they have shown great initiative and taken on the responsibility of the fundraising.

“We would like to thank everyone who has supported us so far including family, friends, the school community, Tesco, The Catenian Society who provided bursaries for the pupils and all those who have donated raffle prizes.”

* Tickets for the quiz night are priced at £5 and can be purchased by contacting the school on 715250.