Lancing College, Open Arms Malawi and Care in Action: Latest Updates

This year marks a remarkable milestone for Lancing College as we celebrate 43 years of connection with Malawi!

Since our very first visit in the early 1980s, Lancing College has fostered a long-standing partnership with Malawi, supporting a range of initiatives that include our ongoing work with Open Arms Malawi. Our involvement has not only helped provide vital care and education for vulnerable children and families, but has also offered Lancing pupils transformative experiences that broaden their worldview and aim to inspire a lifelong commitment to helping those in need. The first visit to Open Arms Malawi took place during the College’s 10th expedition to the country in 2002, led by Mr Matt Smith, who continues to lead our expeditions today. In 2012, our support expanded further when the College began fundraising for the education of Aubrey, Wilson, Norman and Moses from Rose’s House. These young boys have since become part of the extended Lancing community, and we are very proud to continue supporting them on their journey.

Recently, Lancing pupil Harry S took on a fundraising challenge in support of Open Arms Malawi, completing a half marathon and raising an outstanding £810. Despite a few training setbacks due to injury, Harry completed the race in a time of 1 hour and 55 minutes - well done Harry! In a message to his teacher, Mr Smith, Harry expressed his appreciation for the encouragement and generosity of staff members including Mr Harman, Miss Airey, and Mr Bird, whose support made a meaningful difference to his efforts.

We are also thrilled to share news from our collaboration with another longstanding partner, Care in Action. 

We are delighted and very proud that the first two Malawian students sponsored through our partnership with the charity have recently graduated. Promise is now a fully qualified nurse, whilst Veronica has graduated with a BSc in Forestry and Environmental Management. Their education fees and supplies have been met by funds raised by the pupils, parents and staff of the Lancing College community on the annual sponsored Malawi Walk. We extend our warmest congratulations to them both and wish them every success as they begin their professional careers.

Lancing College remains deeply committed to our work in Malawi. These stories of partnership, perseverance and progress reflect the values at the heart of our community: compassion, service, and a belief in the power of education to change lives.