Here is why we love Eilidh Cunningham, our Teacher of the Month!
Eilidh was one of the first people Kate ever shared the vision of TimeGivers with, and from the start, she believed in everything TimeGivers stood for. As a great friend and a dedicated teacher at The Chiswick School, which became the first school TimeGivers partnered with, Eilidh recognised the potential of our programme. She understood that what we offered wasn’t just an addition to the curriculum, but a vital support to it.
With her holistic approach, Eilidh immediately saw how our work could benefit certain students, those who needed something extra to thrive. When we discussed ideas for trips and activities, she knew exactly which students would benefit most. Her passion and willingness to help made her instrumental in integrating TimeGivers into Chiswick School, where we’ve now become an integral part of the community. We owe so much of this success to Eilidh.
Even now, we bounce ideas off her. As the deputy head of a large school like Chiswick, she has an instinctive understanding of what’s needed, and TimeGivers has filled a meaningful gap thanks to her guidance. From the bottom of our hearts, we thank her for the support and belief she’s shown us from the very beginning.
When starting something new, you need someone to believe in you and open doors—Eilidh was that person for us. Open-hearted and incredibly practical, she was exactly what we needed to get our charity off the ground.
Eilidh is not only an incredible teacher but also a wonderful role model for the children of Chiswick School.
Q: How did you first hear about TimeGivers?
A: I first heard about TimeGivers in Kate's kitchen where she told me about her incredible idea and how she thought it could change children's lives. She explained that she wanted all children to have the opportunity to give back and experience the joy that is possible from volunteering. We discussed how we could make it happen and I spoke to my headteacher the next day who, without any questions asked, said of course we could pilot it at Chiswick School.
Q: What does TimeGivers mean to you?
A: TimeGivers is more than just volunteering. It is about creating a community where all stakeholders feel a sense of belonging no matter if you are a volunteer, student, member of staff or a member of one of the charities TimeGivers work with. Kate and her team provide that extra sparkle to schools and local communities that cannot be taught through the curriculum we plan to teach in the classroom.
Q: Why do you think TimeGivers is beneficial for students?
A: At Chiswick School, our catchphrase is 'make it happen' and it is clear TimeGivers live by this too. TimeGivers has helped our students understand the importance of working as a team, giving back to the local community and showing resilience. The variety of activities they offer is endless; singing at the local care home, cooking biscuits for the homeless, organising trips to central London, cooking every week with our students who have only recently arrived in the UK and of course the weekly allotment sessions. Most recently some of our year 12 students completed work experience with TimeGivers. The students feedback that the week had built their self confidence and they felt they had gained mentors and role models in Kate and her team.
Q: Do you remember a particularly special moment?
A: The first time Kate and her team came to Chiswick School, they worked with a group of students who were from a range of ages and backgrounds. Kate's colleague Keith (a professional chef) explained to the students that when we were in the kitchen, everyone was equal and that they all must refer to him as 'chef'. Seeing students work together who not only do not speak the same language, but also may not socialise outside these 4 hours was wonderful. When I asked a student how they found the session they responded, 'It was the greatest thing they had ever done during their time at school.'
Q: Why do you like working with TimeGivers?
A: Alongside being able to work with Kate and her team every week, TimeGivers takes all the stress and admin out of organising trips, volunteering and any of the other wonderful activities they do. Having known Kate prior to TimeGivers I always feel so proud when one of colleagues says how passionate and dedicated the staff at TimeGivers are and the positive impact TimeGivers is having on our students.
I am so incredibly proud and honoured to be part of this community and I am excited to see where the next year takes Kate and her team.
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