Broth Night at Ann's

Interact Activities

Bistro Ann

(Formerly known as Kirkham Community Cafe)

Every Friday students at Durham Trinity School and Sports College participate in a variety of activities including sports, scouts, arts and hair and beauty. Many students choose to work in the community café where they host and serve members of the local community. The café was established firstly, to encourage the community to visit our school and see what great work goes on in a special school and secondly to offer work experience to our young people. Participation in the weekly community café allows students to develop the skills required for the world of work, such as, team building, problem solving, decision making, communication and positive behaviour.  Promoting the skills required for customer service has developed confidence and self esteem. Funds raised at the cafe are donated to local and international charities thus making the students aware of those less fortunate than themselves. During the term the group have raised funds for Durham Food Bank (Brandon) and are presently raising funds for the Salvation Army who will buy toys this Christmas for disadvantaged children. Each week Ann Southren bakes for the cafe and produces jams and preserves to generate funds. The staff at Bistro Ann feel very valued members of school and more importantly, in the wider community. 

Originally Bistro Ann was developed by Interact, the younger branch of Rotary International. Members of the Rotary Club of Durham Elvet continue to support and offer advice to this special project. Bistro Ann has recently gained accreditation of a Presidential Citation for outstanding community service, both locally and international by Rotary International. 

On my retirement I was honoured to be given the gift of a plaque by the students and staff of school renaming the cafe, Bistro Ann.

Ann Southren MBE & Barbara Broadbelt

October 2015