Australian School: Knox Grammar School

Location: Wahwoonga, NSW

Students: Boys from K – Yr12

Partner Community: Lelehudi Community, PNG

Location: Milne Bay

Partners: Local school and community.

Partnership History:

In early 2007, Knox approached UnitingWorld to initiate a partnership that would enable them to participate in development. Later that year the Principal, Mr. John Weeks and a member of staff joined staff from UnitingWorld in a visit to Lelehudi community and the Water and Sanitation project facilitated through UnitingWorld. This provided the foundation for the relations to develop.

Current Engagement

Since then a group of staff and students from Knox has visited each year. In 2009, Knox funded the building of desks by a local company for the community school in the village. When they visited they were able to work alongside the community in assisting with the desks.

This year when the Knox group visited the local community school, they saw the desks in use by the local students which was satisfying.

In 2009/10, Knox also funded the establishment of a local Aidpost within the community. Again, a local construction company was contracted to complete the building as this provided local employment and contributes to the economy of the area. The boys who visited this year were able to witness the progress of the clinic and gain some understanding of the impact that it will have on the health of those in the local community.

Future Direction

The value of the partnership and experience for Lelehudi community, the boys who participate, their parents and the Knox Grammar School community is clearly evident. In light of this, Knox is commited to continue to build this relationship and continue to build real relationship and support their partner community into the future.

The Aidpost is now completed and is due to be handed over to Lelehudi community and the local church in November this year during their much anticipated Ministers Conference.