Cameron

Cameron Forster, tragically killed in 2016 aged 21, attended Hurst (Woodard 2007-2012) followed by Birmingham University and was an RAF trainee. To commemorate Cam, his estate was donated to build an orphanage for the children of Mkushi in Zambia with his mum, Hurst teacher Amanda Jayne, determined to create a legacy for what had been such a positive and inspiring, yet brief life. Cameron was a hugely treasured member of the Hurst community, and a young man of many talents. Not only a House Captain but success at Grade 8 in the rather niche instrument of the recorder as well as winning the Advanced guitar prize in LVI and the Holloway Organ Prize in UVI. He will always be greatly missed by many, but it is safe to say that his legacy lives on through the project and above all, its transformative impact on the local Zambian community.

Amanda

Since setting up Cameron’s Orphanage project the Hurst Community have been involved in many ways to help fundraising. Sarah Hyman, previously Housemistress of Fleur and then Martlet, was instrumental in getting the College fundraising and Fleur House raised almost £10 000 in the first year, with bake sales and concerts.

Fundraising events include the annual Christmas jumper day, Christmas card sales, occasional music concerts and more recently the Staff Revue. Jill Silvey, Head of Learning Support, has supported Amanda on school expeditions to the project site in Mkushi, and is about to make her fourth trip with the Hurst Zambia 2022 Team this July and is a trustee of the charity.

Kate Parker, Head of LS in the Prep School has also been a stalwart supporter since the outset, when her professional musician husband, Andy, met a group of Cameron’s friends after his funeral, which was held at Hurst College with a full military guard of honour and a fly past from his squadron. Viola player Andy Parker, has held several fundraising concerts and helped to re-build and extend the infrastructure of the school.

Amanda spoke to Hurst Foundation about the project; ‘Cam took every opportunity in life but imagine a life where opportunity is even less than a dream; where your main concern is not education or employment but food and shelter and care. In Zambia, £1.00 goes a long way, so never underestimate the power you have to make a change in the world.’