Girls put to work for school

Blenheim businesses and homes which could use extra pairs of hands can next week tap into a resource only available one afternoon a year.

For four hours on May 25, Blenheim's workforce will grow by about 1000 as Marlborough Girls' College students put down their textbooks and do work for businesses and homes to fundraise for the school.

The school's work day is their biggest fundraiser of the year and in the past has paid for improvements to the college campus, including installing outdoor seating, tables and shade umbrellas.

Businesses and families are asked to pay $30 to students under 16, and $40 to those over 16 for help with their odd jobs.

Acting assistant principal Helen Simpson said more business and home owners were needed to employ the students.

Ms Simpson said the fundraiser was run by a student council whose members decided how to spend the money at the school.

The money was usually spent on things seen as an investment into the college and gave students the chance to leave their mark on the school, she said.

Business and home owners who need work done should contact Helen Simpson, ph 520 8448 ext 826 or email helen.simpson@mgc.school.nz.

- The Marlborough Express

SIMON WONG

Last updated 12:00 18/05/2011

BEN CURRAN/The Marlborough Express

On a mission: Claudia Crawford, 17, head of the Marlborough Girls' College school council, is helping to organise placements for her classmates for the school's annual workday on Wednesday next week.