St Andrews students show ‘can do’ attitude on Community Action Day

The action day is part of the newly-launched St Andrews ‘Can Do’ initiative which aims to support the local community and develop Covid-safe activities for students.

During the current period of Covid restrictions, the university wants to help students re-imagine, experiment with, and contribute to the unique St Andrews student experience.

The Can Do spirit is about recognising community as an important way of learning, and finding ways to share experiences and for students to spend time together safely.

Student president Dan Marshall said: “Community Action Day is a great public statement of intent, proving what we already know, that students can and do have a fantastic positive impact in the communities that they are a part of.

“The ‘Can Do’ initiative has already captured the imagination of many of our students’ clubs and societies and has given them the resources and opportunities to make things happen.”

Mr Marshall added: “It’s been great to see the creativity and enthusiasm they promise to bring to our collective experience of this unforgettable year.”

Some students taking part in the event were helping to clean up St Andrews.

Three groups of students were out working alongside the Clean & Green team – two groups were involved in litter picks, one along the Lade Braes and one along the Kinness Burn. The third group washed bins and cleaned up round the war memorial.

“It was great to have three groups of University of St Andrews students out working alongside Clean & Green team on Monday,” said Jane Kell, project manager at the St Andrews Environmental Network.

“The team are working flat out to keep the town looking pristine and safe for residents and visitors alike, so extra help is always appreciated.”

She continued: “Thank you to St Andrews University Students’ Association for organising the volunteering day on what should have been Raisin Monday.”