Project Stedfast

With 2008 and the 125th Anniversary of The Boys’ Brigade in Scotland approaching we had started to look into the possible ways in which we might celebrate the event. It was decided that whilst ‘special’ events would run to mark the Anniversary, we at 5th Livingston, 51st Bonnyrigg and 1st Loanhead Companies wished to reach outward. In December of 2005 letters were sent to many Boys’ Brigade and Church officials throughout the BB World enquiring after possible situations where we could help. In January of 2006 we met with the Rev Elaine McKinnon in Glasgow, having just returned from several years mission work in the region of Kikuyu, Kenya. We were humbled by news of the efforts of the Boys’ and Girls’ Brigade Companies at Kerarapon Parish Church in their bid to establish a school.

This is where our project began!

It is now just over 13 years since our first visit to meet with the people of Oloolua Kenya. Our first venture into what was completely unknown territory took place in November 2006. the purpose of the visit quite simply to ensure that we were dealing with the right people for such a venture and to answer any doubts or concerns we had and finalise plans for the building of St Andrews School. The trip was a resounding success in every way possible. We experienced the most sincere and heartfelt hospitality I have ever come across leaving my colleagues and I deeply humbled.

We experienced the most sincere and heartfelt hospitality I have ever come across leaving my colleagues and I deeply humbled. Our Target at that was to raise £33,629.00 to facilitate the building of three classrooms with electrical distribution, toilet facility and water sanitation. A heady task by anyone’s standards. Our target to achieve this was October 2008 to coincide with Founders day during the 125 Anniversary of The Boys Brigade. We reached our target in March 2007, the first pupils taking to the School in January 2008. We then and made the decision to press on. Plans were drawn for the next three classes and also for the building of a Unit for Children with a Disability.

There have been a number of group visits to allow Boys Brigade members of Bonnyrigg experience Kenya and to see the results 1st hand of the magnificent work that PROJECT STEDFAST has delivered to the children and families at St Andrews School.