Boys go BAT for Niger

By Rebecca Fraser
YEAR nine boys at Berwick Secondary College have banded together to raise funds for World Vision.
Students in the school’s Boys Alternative Transition (BAT) program have organised a year seven disco tomorrow (Friday) night to raise funds for Niger — a country ravaged by poverty and starvation.
Student Callum Goodlet said World Vision was a good cause that needed money and support.
“I hope they (Year 7 students) will all come along and we are hoping for around 150 people,” Callum said.
“Tickets cost $8 or $9.50 with a wrist band.
“We have also organised a barbecue and there will be door prizes and a raffle.”
The students contacted numerous local businesses at Fountain Gate and in High Street, Berwick to donate items.
Callum, who hopes to raise $1500, said organising the event was a learning experience.
“It was a lot harder and (more) difficult than I thought.
“A lot of businesses were not interested but we learnt a lot,” he said.
Student Brad Clark said he became interested in raising funds after a World Vision spokesperson came and visited their school.
“We wanted to raise money for the children of Niger so they can have toilets and food,” Brad said.
“World Vision came out and gave a talk and showed us pictures of the children and they are not good at all and that is why we really wanted to do something,” he said.
Teacher Stuart Johnstone said the Bat Program was designed to help students who had become disengaged from education for various reasons.
“We work closely with them and try to bring about a different approach to school,” Mr Johnstone said.
“This event was the foundation of this and students were able to really work on their writing and organisational skills.”