Curry for Conservation: Thomas Paine Sixth Form Students’ Raise Funds for Ecological Expedition to Indonesia

On Friday 10th May, Thomas Paine Sixth Form students hosted a quiz and curry night at Thetford Academy to raise funds for a research expedition to Indonesia.  

The six Year 12 students aim to conduct valuable research on biodiversity in the region of Wallacea. This will involve surveying the flora and fauna in the rainforest, before exploring the marine life at the Hoga Island marine camp. The expedition is run by the charity Operation Wallacea, which helps many species around the world that are potentially at extreme risk from climate change.  

The expedition will support environmental conservation in one of the most ecologically diverse places in the world – this is a crucial step towards a more sustainable future. The expedition will help the students to learn skills in scientific fieldwork, which they hope to use as they continue their studies at university.  

Year 12 student, Taylor who is currently studying A-Levels in Business, Criminology and Geography said: 

“I'm hoping to go to university in 2025 to study Physical Geography. I am really interested in environmental sustainability and pursuing climate change research. This expedition will help me understand how local communities deal with global environmental issues.” 

Sarah, who is studying A-Levels in Maths, Chemistry, Physics said:  

“Seeing a completely different culture appeals to me, alongside the physical challenges of learning to dive whilst completing vital environmental research.” 

Demi, who is currently studying A-Levels in Biology, Chemistry, Maths said: 

“I love the great outdoors and camping. I am really interested in ecology and all the conservation research we will be conducting. I would like to learn more about their local wildlife and ecosystems both on land in the rainforest and in the ocean.” 

There were lots of prizes to be won and a raffle which included gift baskets and other goodies. Food on offer included a tasty chicken curry and a delicious vegan curry, made by the students themselves, supported by Mrs Karim. Tea and coffee were included in the price of tickets, and soft drinks were available to buy. 

The event was a resounding success, raising a total of £1000 which will go entirely towards the student's research project providing the students with travel, mosquito net hats, wetsuits and a PADI dive certification. The group is still accepting sponsors and appreciate any small donations via their Google site.  

The expedition will take place in 2025 but the group has already begun to prepare for the trip, learning about the environment that they will be surveying and learning the Indonesian language. The students have sought local community and business support, and amongst a range of financial contributors have a received a grant from the Norfolk Community Foundation, Nelson Spirit Future Leader Revenue Fund. The sixth formers will continue with their fundraising efforts throughout the rest of the year.  

Year 12 student, Sam said: 

“We are so grateful for the amazing support shown by our peers, teachers and the local community! They can see the value of what we’re trying to accomplish and we’re incredibly excited to get started. After the expedition, we look forward to sharing the findings and the experiences we had with students in Thetford and the wider community!”  

Head of Sixth Form, Helen Thomas-Jones said: 

“The students have worked so hard to make this event a success and they are so deserving of this expedition. Not only will this be an incredible experience for each of them, but their research will be invaluable in supporting environmental conservation. We wish them all the very best!” 

To learn more about the expedition, visit the Wallacea website