Ventnor Blog

We reminded you yesterday of the forthcoming summer fair at St Catherine’s this Friday, but also don’t forget about the charity shop being opened on Monday by learners at St Catherine’s.

With the fantastic support of local businessman Graham Perks, St Catherine’s further education learners are setting up and running a shop at 46 High Street Ventnor for a two-week period from Monday 30 June.

St Catherine’s is a national charity for children and young people with speech, language and communication impairments. The retail venture will provide effective work experience for the learners to practice their numeracy, literacy and social skills.

Mr Perks kindly loaned the shop premises free of charge. As Graham explained

“St Catherine’s is an amazing charity and I am delighted to be in a position to assist this innovative project tying in practical work experience with fundraising.”

Anne Kerr, Work Experience Coordinator at St Catherine’s, explained

“The young people will be involved in all aspects of running a retail business. They cleared and cleaned the shop, priced and displayed the goods and will be serving customers. This is a fantastic opportunity to have hands on retail experience and at the same time work with the local community.”

Kim Fry, Community Fundraiser, explained

“All the goods have been generously donated and we will be delighted to accept more during the two weeks. As a charity our fundraising provides crucial funds to support children and young people with speech, language and communication impairments. This is one example of how young people at St Catherine’s become involved in fundraising themselves.”

“St Catherine’s is launching a vocational training project later this year that aims to address the gap between the learning and work environment for young people with communication disabilities across the Island. All funds raised from our shop will directly support this project.”

Business, Charity, Retail, Ventnor, Youth