Ninety days after Hurricane Melissa swept across parts of the Caribbean, many countries are now moving from emergency response to long-term recovery. Communities continue to face public health risks caused by damaged infrastructure, disrupted services and increased vulnerability across the islands. In response, students came together to raise funds and show their support.

A Year 10 bake sale offered a delicious range of homemade treats and, alongside the fantastic efforts of the Diversitas team at SDCC, raised an impressive £111.81. A lively cracker-eating contest brought plenty of laughs (and dry mouths!), with Daniel (Year 10) and Renil (Year 9) successfully eating three crackers in 60 seconds to win a jump-the-queue lunch pass.

The ever-popular “Pie the Teacher” event was a huge success, with Miss Rodgers, Mrs Ekpoffiong, Mrs James and Mr Cole bravely volunteering to be pied in the face, showing great team spirit and dedication. Music at both break times kept the energy high - first break was led by Mr Sophola, followed by Mrs Rust and the Head of Year, whose dance moves kept the fundraising party going.

Max said,

“There was such a good vibe all day. It was amazing to see everyone across the school coming together to raise money and support something so important.”

Miss Honeyghan said,

“I am incredibly proud of all the students and especially the Diversitas group… There was a real buzz and vibe in both schools. My family were heavily affected by the hurricane, especially in St Elizabeth, and I know this will go far when converted. Grateful and blessed.”

Mrs Chalmers added,

“It was great to see them laughing and enjoying raising money — great support and supporting each other.”

The day was a wonderful example of compassion, teamwork and community spirit in action.