Uganda Visit – Summer 2025
Over the summer, a group of 14 students, accompanied by our school chaplain, Rev. Houghton, spent two weeks in Uganda. They explored the country’s culture, education, and faith communities, gaining first-hand insight into life at Buikwe Secondary School, with whom Eltham College has a relationship through the charity International Needs. Meeting with Paul Ssematimba, Buikwe’s Headmaster, who visited Eltham College last year, was a highlight of the trip.
Students experienced a typical day in Buikwe: attending lessons alongside local students, engaging in interactive activities, helping with community projects, and participating in chapel and worship sessions. They also went on safari and visited The GEM Foundation, which provides a safe home for abandoned and disabled children. These experiences allowed the students to see education and faith in action in a different cultural context, building understanding, empathy and a global perspective.
Back at Eltham, the chaplaincy continues to nurture spiritual growth through weekend retreats, student-led chapel services, and regular scripture sessions. The Uganda trip reinforced the value of cross-cultural learning, faith and the deep bonds formed between the two schools.
Looking ahead, Eltham College plans to raise funds to bring three teachers from Buikwe to London, creating further opportunities for exchange and collaboration. More details on this exciting project will follow in due course.
Follow the link to see a day in the life in Buikwe with Rev. Houghton as your guide: A Day in the Life Video
