A Dorset school is continuing its efforts to support some of the world’s poorest students - but it needs your help.

For the past two years, staff, parents and students of The Purbeck School have sponsored the education of several students at The Excel School in Rwamagana, Rwanda, with the help of the Amakuru Trust.

Last year money raised by the school meant six young children from poor families were able to attend school, provided with a uniform and a lunchtime meal.

Assistant headteacher, Simon Holmes said he first became aware of the Amakuru Trust’s work when project director, Mike Hayes, worked at The Purbeck School.

“I was troubled by the suffering of those who experienced the Rwandan genocide and inspired by the work the trust has done to help communities of widows and establishing an excellent school in the town of Rwamagana. We have now travelled with Amakuru to Rwanda twice with students working in schools, meeting genocide survivors and acting as ambassadors for the charity,” Mr Holmes said.

Recently the Excel School in Rwanda sent through thank you messages from the children and school reports detailing the successes of ‘The Purbeck Six’

Now, the Purbeck School is relaunching its appeal so they can continue the pupils’ education.

In October, a party of 12 from Purbeck will visit Rwanda and they have started fundraising towards their trip completing a sponsored walk and planning a quiz night and indoor boot sale.

Mr Holmes said: “We hope once more to sponsor these children and make a real difference to their lives. The Excel School has gained the highest results for school leavers in Rwamangana last year and so every child attending stands such a better chance of being successful in the future.”

The school is asking members of the public to donate £15, or whatever they can spare either in cash or cheques payable to the Purbeck School.

Every supporter will receive a certificate and donations must be received by March 11.