Wallace High School’s Rotary Interact Club has enjoyed a fantastic start of the 2024/25 academic year. The Club, part of the Rotary International Family, is affiliated with the thriving Lisburn Rotary Club. It is made up of over twenty committed Year 13 students, who meet weekly to foster the spirit of “Service Above Self”.
What does our Rotary Club do at Wallace?
Teacher in Charge, Julie Dumigan explained,
“I am delighted to see our Club flourishing once again and am already impressed with the commitment and leadership displayed by our young people. Our weekly meetings are student-led and provide the opportunity for superb personal development. It is a pleasure to work with such a talented group.”
An early highlight of the year has been the Rotary Youth Leadership competition, with strong entries from Annie, Zlata, Lucy, Jude and Ollie. The students underwent a rigorous process, completing detailed applications before being interviewed by three members of Lisburn Rotary Club, discussing topics such as leadership, the European Union and international relations.
Leadership Success
Lucy, Captain of the 1st XI hockey team and currently studying Chemistry, PE and Biology, was delighted to be chosen as the winner of the Lisburn heats. She then went on to win the Zone Area Final and will head off to Strasbourg in the New Year.
“Whilst the interview process was daunting, it was a fantastic opportunity to reflect on leadership and develop my communication skills. I am looking forward to representing our city and Zone moving forward and learning more about the vital work of Rotary International.”
Charity Focus 2024-2025
This year’s chosen charities are Cash for Kids and Hiding Place, an Albanian Children’s Home, reflecting Rotary International’s commitment to making a difference at home and abroad. The charities were decided on by the student body, with a clear focus on helping young people.
President Ben, currently studying Business Studies, Physics and Maths, commented,
“I am very proud to have been elected as Club President and look forward to developing my leadership over the next few months. The creativity shown by our team has been amazing and I know we will have a wonderful year not only making a difference to society but developing as individuals and as a team. We plan to educate the student body about the vital work of our chosen charities and provide a series of innovative events to foster collegiality and school spirit.”
Treasurer Anna, studying Maths, Nutrition and Food Science and Business Studies at A Level, added,
“This new challenge is very exciting and a wonderful opportunity to hone my skills in financial planning and decision making.”
Secretary Holly, studying Nutrition and Food Science, Business Studies and Geography,
“It is an honour to be part of this strong Wallace tradition of helping others whilst learning about the importance of time-management, clear communication and effective planning.”
To date, half-term treat sales and House Day face-painting have taken place, with plans afoot for the eagerly-anticipated annual singing elves’ Candy Cane delivery service, providing not only festive cheer but a superb way to raise funds for those less fortunate and to learn about the work of the two important chosen charities.
Concluding Remarks
Julie Dumigan concluded,
“Altruism is at the heart of life in WHS, following in the footsteps of our founder, Sir Richard, whose legacy certainly lives on in the leadership displayed by our students. We are very lucky to have such a strong school spirit with our school community supporting all our endeavours.”
You can keep up to date with our Rotary Club activities and success via http://www.instagram.com/wallacehighlisburn
Last modified: January 28, 2025
