Airport staff give back to local community through August volunteering programme

Airport staff took part in a series of volunteering days throughout August, supporting local schools and community organisations by helping to improve facilities and outdoor spaces.

Teams from across London Stansted rolled up their sleeves to tackle a range of projects, from redecorating classrooms and school facilities to maintaining gardens and carrying out practical improvement work.

One group of volunteers from the airport's Health & Safety and Fire Safety teams spent a day at Roseacres Primary School in Takeley.

Despite temperatures reaching 36°C, volunteers painted three classrooms, toilet facilities, a corridor and the school lobby, helping to refresh key areas used by pupils and staff.

The volunteering day followed recent support for the school through Stansted Airport's Passenger Community Fund, which awarded Roseacres Primary School £1,000 towards the development of a new library.

Becca Dow, Fire Safety Manager at London Stansted, said:

"It was great to spend the day at Roseacres Primary School and be able to help out. Despite the heat, everyone got stuck in and worked hard, and it was nice to see the improvements that could be achieved in a day."

Vicky Childs, Headteacher at Roseacres Primary School, said:

"We're very grateful to the volunteers from London Stansted who gave up their time to support our school. In just one day they refreshed several important areas, including our entrance, library and classrooms, creating brighter spaces for pupils and staff."

Meanwhile, members of the airport's Training Department took part in two volunteering days at Gorsefield Rural Studies and Outdoor Activity Centre.

Working alongside centre staff, volunteers helped with gardening, pond maintenance, clearing outdoor areas, painting furniture and preparing buildings for future improvements.

The work supported the centre's ongoing activities, which provide outdoor learning opportunities for children and young adults.

Paul Jackson, Headteacher of Gorsefield Rural Studies and Outdoor Activity Centre, said:

"We are very grateful to the teams from Stansted Airport who gave us two days of their time and energy. Gorsefield is a large site and there is always plenty of practical work to be done. The volunteers made a real difference across the grounds and their support was greatly appreciated."

The volunteering programme provided airport colleagues with opportunities to support community projects across the local area.

Daniel Turpin, Community Engagement Manager at London Stansted, said:

"These volunteering days gave colleagues the opportunity to spend time supporting organisations that play an important role in the local community. We'd like to thank everyone who took part, as well as Roseacres Primary School and Gorsefield for welcoming our teams."