This year, the Open Arms team had the pleasure of welcoming several schools to Malawi. Our partnerships with these schools, not only help to deepen students' understanding of global issues but also provide vital support to our work. Here’s a glimpse into the inspiring trips taken by Lancing College, Culford School, and George Watson’s College as they visit with Open Arms as part of their expeditions to Malawi.
In July, Lancing College embarked on its 20th expedition to Malawi, marking an incredible milestone that began 42 years ago. Led by Matt Smith, the group visited Mangochi Infant Home, which left a profound impact on many of them. Some were keen to help further and requested to return over the following days to continue helping care for the babies.
In addition to their time at the Infant Home, Lancing students connected with Norman and Moses, two young adults whom Lancing continues to support through further education and vocational training, along with four other individuals supported by Open Arms. Together, they enjoyed a safari in Liwonde National Park and challenged themselves with a hike up Mount Mulanje, bonding through these memorable experiences.
Culford School students, eager to support Open Arms’ shift to community-based care, prepared thoroughly for their August trip. As part of their preparation, a small group researched the work of Open Arms' community program and how it empowers families to care for vulnerable infants within their own homes. As a result of their hard work they secured funding to help support Open Arms.
During their visit to Blantyre, Culford students were able to witness the impact of their support on children and families. They visited Tisawataye Nursery School and engaged with the Open Arms team, learning about the evolving support structure for families caring for vulnerable infants at home and the initiatives underway to help families become self-sufficient—a program made even more possible thanks to Culford’s support. This experience allowed students to engage with staff, deepening their understanding of cultural factors and the key drivers of lasting change.
“Before visiting the community Open Arms projects, charity for me was just something that you give money to. Having researched, presented and fundraised for these projects I felt personally part of what was going on. The best ever aspect, however, was to see with my own eyes the community outreach programme itself and the effect of hard work and donations in the Blantyre Community in the summer of 2024.” - Violet, student at Culford School
Long-standing partners from George Watson’s College were the final school group to visit Malawi this October. A highlight of their trip is usually the visit to Namalu village, where they have formed close bonds with the community and continue to sponsor the nursery school supported by Open Arms. Unfortunately, heavy rains made the route to the village impassable for their buses, preventing them from visiting Namalu on this trip. However, the Open Arms team was able to deliver their generous donations, including musical instruments, toys, and stationery, which the children were overjoyed to receive.
Despite the disappointment of missing Namalu, the group enjoyed a talk from Anthony to learn about the progress being made with Community-Based Care and how their amazing support is making a difference. Some students also had the opportunity to travel to Mangochi Infant Home, where they assisted mothers in caring for the babies. The team was delighted to welcome George Watson’s students once again.
School partnerships are an invaluable part of Open Arms’ mission. These trips open students’ eyes to new cultures, challenges, and ways of life, creating a ripple effect of compassion and understanding. For Open Arms, the support and donations these schools bring are essential to our work and make a lasting impact on the children and communities we serve.
If your school is considering a partnership with Open Arms or planning a visit to Malawi, we would love to connect with you. Together, we can make these trips truly transformative for everyone involved.
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