In today's rapidly evolving society, where individual success is often prioritised, the importance of instilling charitable values in the next generation cannot be overstated. Educating students in the spirit of charity and giving not only contributes to the development of a more compassionate society but also offers profound benefits to the children themselves.

“Charity and Concern for Others are at the heart of the British School of Bucharest Community because we want our students to grow up to be good people. Apart from helping them fulfill their academic potential, we are responsible for raising our students to become adults with outstanding moral fibre,” say British School of Bucharest (BSB) representatives.

The benefits of nurturing generosity in young minds range from enhancing emotional well-being to fostering community cohesion:

Cultivating Empathy and Emotional Intelligence

Introducing children to the concept of charity helps them develop empathy, an essential component of emotional intelligence. By understanding and sharing the feelings of others, BSB students learn to navigate social situations more effectively and build stronger relationships. 

Promoting BSB Social Responsibility

Teaching students about charity encourages them to think beyond their immediate desires and consider the broader implications of their actions on society. This awareness fosters a sense of social responsibility, inspiring BSB’s young learners to contribute positively to the community. By understanding the challenges faced by others and recognising their capacity to make a difference, children are empowered to take action on issues they care about, leading to a more engaged and active citizenry.

Enhancing Self-Esteem and Happiness

The act of giving has been shown to boost self-esteem and increase feelings of happiness. This positive reinforcement encourages a cycle of giving, as the joy derived from charitable acts motivates further generosity. 

Building a Sense of Community

Collaborating towards a shared objective reinforces the importance of teamwork and cooperation for BSB students. This provides them with an opportunity not only to contribute to a better world but also to forge connections with their peers. A robust sense of community is a cornerstone of our school, where individuals come together to support each other in times of need.  

Developing Lifelong Habits of Giving

Early exposure to the principles of charity and giving may lay the groundwork for a lifetime of generosity. Children who grow up understanding the importance of helping others are more likely to continue these practices into adulthood. By making charity a part of children's lives from a young age, we can ensure that the next generation carries forward the legacy of giving, perpetuating a cycle of kindness and compassion that benefits society as a whole.

“We teach our students values like self-control, honesty, respect, equality, and concern for others and empower them to live by them daily. By adopting an active role in community service projects and fundraising activities, our students develop their social awareness and learn to take the initiative in supporting the community,” explain BSB representatives.

Here are some examples of charitable initiatives designed to get students involved:

Back-to-School Backpacks

The ‘Back-to-School Backpacks’ initiative aims to provide disadvantaged children in Romania with essential educational materials to support their schooling. The BSB Community donates fully-equipped backpacks with all the supplies needed for the first day of school to local non-profit organisations such as Casa Ioana, Fundatia Inocenti – Romanian Children’s Relief, and Asociatia Hercules (Bufkids). 

Harvest Festival

Taking place each year in October, the Harvest Festival involves BSB students and their families in collecting and donating clothes and non-perishable goods to vulnerable children and the elderly, supported by the St. Stelian charity organisation.

Casa Ioana’s Sleep Out

For one night, BSB Sixth Form students and their teachers sleep outside on the BSB main lawn to raise awareness for the plight of the homeless. All proceeds raised during this event go to Casa Ioana, one of the school’s partner charities committed to improving the lives of families experiencing homelessness. 

Poppy Appeal

Every November BSB supports the Poppy Appeal initiative, the Royal British Legion’s biggest fundraising campaign held during the period of Remembrance. The school’s students raise money each year for the heroes who served in all conflicts and their families and commemorate Remembrance Day by visiting the War Cemetery of Tâncăbești.

Casa Ioana Soup Kitchen

For an extended period, BSB has steadfastly backed the Casa Ioana charity, embodying its commitment to philanthropy. The school’s students actively serve nourishing soup to individuals experiencing homelessness in Bucharest, complemented by the distribution of winter clothing and canned food.

Christmas Gift Appeal

The Christmas Gift Appeal stands as an enduring tradition within the BSB School Community. This annual event reflects the school’s dedication to supporting partner charities in Romania and instilling a sense of empathy among the students. Encouraging children to assemble thoughtfully curated gifts comprising essential items for individuals in need, this initiative amplifies the spirit of compassion and generosity within the school’s culture.

The benefits of educating students in the spirit of charity and giving through such initiatives are both immediate and long-lasting. Fostering empathy, social responsibility, self-esteem, and community cohesion, prepares children not only for personal success but also for meaningful contributions to society.

“As parents, educators, and community leaders, it is our responsibility to instill these values in the young minds entrusted to our care. In doing so, we pave the way for a brighter, more compassionate future for all,” conclude BSB representatives. 

BSB Education, Recognised for Academic Excellence

For more than 20 years, the British School of Bucharest has been dedicated to providing future generations with an education that builds confidence and character and supports them in broadening their skills to realise their full potential and shape a better world. The school attracts more than 700 students from 65 nations worldwide and strives to provide them with a positive, caring, and warm environment where they can flourish into their best versions of themselves.

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*This is Native content supported by the British School of Bucharest.