Students from Wiltshire College had an eye-opening experience over the summer when they visited Nakuru in Kenya for 10 days to volunteer on two school projects.

The group of nine students went on the trip through African Adventures including a visit to the Hilton Slum to see the work the organisation does with families and children there.

One of the projects the students worked on was Love For All, which offers education for over 200 pupils.The students helped complete new toilet blocks, made repairs to chairs and desks and helped with teaching.

Beauty Therapy student Melody Simms, from Trowbridge said: “It was a great chance to experience something outside my comfort zone, to do something good, challenge myself and make my friends and families proud.”

Some of the group also helped out on the Mama Kerry school project, set up in 2008 after the election riots after which many families became displaced and homeless.

The project provides a free education, as well as breakfast and lunch, for over 200 pupils, while also giving financial support to the pupil’s families through assistedbusiness start-ups and donations.

The team from Wiltshire College helped out by painting classroom walls, adding educational murals, teaching and serving lunches.

Holly Green, a Childcare student from Melksham, said: “We have everything and they have nothing, but they are so happy.

“It is absolutely the best thing I have ever done and I would recommend it to anyone.

“The children and adults are so welcoming, the songs and dances they did for us were amazing.

“It was a life changing experience.”

As part of the trip, the students also spent time visiting local landmarks such as the Nakuru National Safari Park, the equator, Thomson Falls and the Menengai Crater.

Student Liaison Officer Bea Lilly, who lead the trip, said: “Everyone worked really well as a team and was able to have a laugh with one another, as well as supporting each other on the difficult days.”