Pupils Drop In to Drop-in Centre

On Sunday June 9 pupils and staff from Shiplake College volunteered at the Churches in Reading Drop-in Centre (CIRDIC), to cook and serve breakfast to disadvantaged members of the public. 

The team arrived at 8.00am to start preparations, with volunteers dividing into smaller groups to take on specific tasks. From porridge making, to egg frying, pupils and staff threw themselves into the various jobs with Mr Wilson in particular demonstrating his considerable washing-up skills! The food was supplied by the school's caterers, Thomas Franks and included 100 eggs, 100 sausages, numerous packs of bacon and bread. 

Musical entertainment as breakfast was served was performed by M Griffiths and R Wang who played the guitar and piano at different
stages throughout the morning.

Once the bulk of the cooking was done, a number of staff and pupils were then free to sit and chat with guests. Mr Hunt, who organised the visit, said: “We all found the experience a confronting one, especially considering the very fortunate lives we live. To have the opportunity to speak with and help those who struggle from day to day made for some considerable reflection.”

It was also an important opportunity for pupils to see where the food that they donate each Lent goes to and who benefits from it. We hope that the Shiplake community makes this a regular commitment.

Based in the middle of Reading, CIRDIC is seen as a safe and welcoming drop-in centre for many homeless and disadvantaged adults in the local community. Established in 1990 by a group of Christians, the centre has grown and now offers a wide range of support services to its guests.

Thank you to Mr Hunt, Mr Griffiths, Mr Wilson, Miss Kernaghan, Mr Ebun-Cole, Mr Lee, J Murray, T Fox, J D’ascendis, M Griffiths, F Focosi, R Kinoshita, A Wood and R Wang for taking part in the morning and for representing the College.