Saphara teams give young people the opportunity to engage in issues of justice and global citizenship through working with educationally disadvantaged children in India. Saphara is a non-profit, non-denominational Christian organisation which welcomes young people from all backgrounds, races and religions.

The single best experience of my life, I truly loved every second of it. I felt honoured to have the opportunity to make a difference in these children’s lives. Saphara really is a fantastic charity! Claire
2012 Schools Programme

We are delighted with the overwhelming number of applications for our 2012 programme with over 200 pupils applying for 54 places. Well done to the successful candidates. We’re only sorry we don’t have enough space for all the wonderful young people who applied.

The 16 day trip in July 2012 will focus on working with disadvantaged children in India through Irish-linked charities. The location will be Dehradun and Mussoorie in the foothills of the Himalayas.

The trip will consist of

  • Weekend in Delhi – orientation, sightseeing, shopping with trip to Taj Mahal
  • Week teaching children in hill village school in Mussoorie
  • Global Awareness Weekend with trekking in Himalayas
  • Week in Dehradun teaching in school for children from marginalized urban community
  • Weekend in Delhi

The total cost of the trip inclusive of all costs including insurance is

  • £650 parental contribution for flights and travel
  • £500 personal fundraising
  • £500 team fundraising.

Each team will comprise 18 young people from Year 13 with 4 teachers

Team 1 from Aquinas Grammar, Methodist College and Sullivan Upper.

Team 2 from Assumption Grammar, Down High and Regent House.

Team 3 from St Mary’s Magherafelt, Dominican College, Portstewart and Coleraine Inst.

Dr Christine Burnett, a teacher for 20 years at Methodist College, will lead the teams along with teachers from each school.

Information evenings for students and parents of all participating
schools will be held at:

-          Down High School on Wednesday 14 September at 7.30pm

-          Regent House School on Thursday 15 September at 7.30pm

-          Dominican College on Monday 19 September at 7.00pm

-          Methodist College on Wednesday 21 September at 7.30pm

-          St Mary’s Grammar Magherafelt on Wednesday 5 October at 7.00pm

-          Coleraine Inst on Monday 24 October at 7.00pm