A Dedicated Ambassador for Vuyani Safe Haven
About Lathallan School Scotland
Since 2011, Lathallan School in Johnshaven, Scotland, has been a steadfast ambassador for Vuyani Safe Haven, leaving a lasting legacy through its annual volunteer program.
A Legacy of Service
Annual Visits
Each year, S5 and S6 pupils travel to South Africa to support the children of Vuyani.
Over 50 Volunteers
These visits have transformed both the facilities and lives at Vuyani.
Impactful Projects
From building playgrounds to supporting the Learning Centre, students have raised over £30,000.
Daniel Dreelan’s Gift
Former pupil Daniel funded the construction of two rooms used as office and therapy spaces. His family supported Vuyani until 2018.
Post-COVID Return
After a three-year pause, the program resumed in 2023. As Craig Kinkead (2023/24 Consul) reflected: “The children have left a permanent imprint on my life.”
Whole-School Involvement
- Lathallan’s commitment runs deep. From juniors to seniors, the entire school rallies behind the cause, hosting fundraising events like the Celebration of the Arts to raise awareness and support.
Champions Behind the Scenes
- James Ferrier and Fiona Howie laid the foundation for this partnership. James, even after retirement, continues to accompany trips—two of his children, Kath and Gillie, joined as students.
- Dedicated Staff: Teachers like Emily Niven, Zoë Jordan, and Cat Goven (2024) ensure each trip is enriching and impactful.
Looking Ahead – 2025 and Beyond
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2025 Trip Cancelled:
- Due to new tax-related financial constraints affecting private schools in Scotland, the 2025 group visit has been called off.
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Support Continues:
- Fundraising for Vuyani will continue within the school.
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A New Chapter:
- Plans are underway to maintain the connection. Katherine Ferrier, Lathallan’s first volunteer, will return from 11–26 October 2025.
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Alumni Ambassador Initiative:
- We’re exploring a new venture to reconnect past volunteers with Vuyani. The goal is to form a group of mature alumni who may return with new skills to support not only Vuyani but also broader community needs.
We are deeply thankful to the students, staff, and families of Lathallan for their ongoing generosity and heartfelt connection with Vuyani. Their legacy lives on in every child they’ve touched.
