Recently, boarders from Edmund Webb Boarding House paid a visit to Metro Rehabilitation Centre in Petersham for a community service initiative. Gathering some of the best singers and choristers from Edmund Webb, the boys sang to patients at the hospital. Boarder Victor Mkaronda (12/ME) shared his rewarding experience with us, noting the important lessons that can be gained through Service Learning:

“Singing for the patients at the hospital was a nerve-racking experience for many of the boys, however seeing the patients entertained made us feel better and confident about what we were doing. Taking part in Service Learning opportunities in the local community is very rewarding not only for us as students but also for those in the community who are directly and indirectly impacted by our service to them.

Personally, Service Learning has had a tremendous impact on me; the time spent giving back to the community has helped me learn to appreciate those around us who may be less fortunate, sick and suffering. Although our project is a small one, I think that making these little differences to someones day, week, or even month by sharing the gift of music or whatever we have to offer is something we can do to show our appreciation and sympathy to those we owe it to.

The best part of the experience for me was walking around the wards with the boys singing ‘Lean On Me’ by Bill Withers and watching the faces of patients brighten up as we went by.”