Claire Christiansen from Larkmead School in Abingdon discusses the importance of Make A Difference week for students to volunteer.
Make a Difference Week: Volunteering with Purpose
There’s something truly powerful about watching young people realise that their time, energy and ideas can genuinely change the world around them. That’s exactly what happens during Make a Difference Week (MAD Week) — a highlight of the year for our Year 12 students, and a programme that continues to grow in impact, inspiration and legacy.
MAD Week gives students the opportunity to step beyond the school gates and into the heart of the local community, working alongside charities and not-for-profit organisations on meaningful projects that create real, visible change. In the past, we’ve proudly partnered with organisations such as Yellow Submarine, the Story Museum, Oxford Wood Recycling, and the Lions, to name just a few. Each placement offers something different, but they all share one important aim: giving students the chance to make a difference where it matters most.
For many students, MAD Week is their first real insight into the charity sector. They see first-hand how community organisations work, the dedication behind them, and the impact that can be achieved when people come together with a shared purpose. It’s a week that encourages students to step outside their comfort zones — and often, that’s where the most important growth happens.
More than volunteering
At its heart, MAD Week is about more than volunteering. It’s about developing confidence, character and the transferable skills students will carry into their futures, including communication, teamwork, resilience, organisation and problem-solving. Just as importantly, it helps students reflect on what motivates them, what they enjoy, and the kind of contribution they want to make.
MAD Week has given me a huge amount of confidence that I didn't know I had. I've put myself in uncomfortable positions and from that gained new experiences and increased relationships. It has taught me the importance of patience and how my positive impact can affect others in the community
MAD Week has shown me that I can achieve things that I didn't think I could… MAD Week has given me a valuable insight into working with younger students and has really shown me that working with younger kids is the right career for me.
One of the most heartwarming outcomes of MAD Week is the legacy it creates. Many students choose to continue volunteering after the programme ends, building lasting relationships with the organisations they supported. Students have returned to help the Abingdon Lions with their Santa Sleigh initiative, and others have continued supporting organisations such as Helen & Douglas House and Yellow Submarine — a true reflection of the lasting impact MAD Week can have.
The week itself is carefully planned so students feel prepared and purposeful from day one. Students meet with their charity in advance, ensuring they understand their project and can “hit the ground running” when the week begins. At the end of MAD Week, students create presentations to reflect on the work completed, the skills developed, and the impact made. In September, partner charities are invited back into school to hear these presentations and celebrate the success of the programme together.
MAD Week has become a valued and inspiring part of school life — strengthening community links, developing students’ confidence, and proving that volunteering can be a powerful force for personal growth and social change.
Make a Difference Week is an important reflection of the values of Larkmead School, the importance of community and the commitment of our sixth form to local charities. It is a well-established and well regarded Larkmead event, whose benefits extend well beyond school. Well done to all involved in this fantastic annual event.
MAD Week doesn’t just change a week — it changes mindsets, futures, and communities.
If you would like to find out more about MAD week please email Claire Christiansen.