At St Columba’s College, service is a key expression of our ethos and values. Inspired by our motto Cor ad Cor Loquitur (Heart Speaking to Heart), we encourage every student to develop compassion through action — supporting those in need locally and globally.
Our students engage in a wide range of charitable activities, helping to raise funds, build awareness, and offer practical support to our partner charities. These include:
- Project Respond (Zambia) – Since 1991, Sixth Form students have partnered with St Francis School in Malole, Zambia, contributing to building projects and cultural exchange each summer.
- CAFOD – As part of the Westminster Diocese CAFOD Young Leaders programme, students lead campaigns for social justice and fundraise through events like the annual Inter-House Bake Off and the Simple Meal.
- Homeless Sleepout – Students, staff and parents raise funds and awareness by spending a night sleeping rough, supporting Open Door homeless shelter in St Albans.
- Foodbank Appeals – Each Lent, students collect and deliver over a tonne of food to Borehamwood Foodbank, showing commitment to those facing food poverty.
- Reds4Veds – Inspired by one of our own pupils, this initiative raises awareness and funds for rare disease research, with community events led by our students.
- Harvest Appeal – Every October, pupils donate and deliver goods to the local foodbank, learning the value of generosity and service from a young age
Local Volunteering
- Watling View School – Sixth Form students volunteer weekly at this local SEN school, supporting pupils across a range of educational and creative activities.
- St Adrian’s Primary School – Students provide one-to-one reading and literacy support, helping younger children grow in confidence.
- Community1st Projects – From helping at vaccine centres to supporting local transport initiatives, students are active contributors to the wider community.
