Every year on 5 December, the world comes together to celebrate International Volunteer Day (IVD)—a day dedicated to recognising the incredible contributions of volunteers and encouraging everyone to make a positive impact. For schools, this is a perfect opportunity to inspire students to embrace the values of kindness, community, and responsibility.

Volunteering isn’t just about giving time: it’s about building character and creating connections. When students volunteer—whether through charity events, peer mentoring, or environmental projects—they learn empathy, teamwork, and leadership skills that last a lifetime. These experiences shape confident, socially aware individuals ready to make a difference beyond the classroom.

Why Schools Should Celebrate IVD

International Volunteer Day offers schools a chance to showcase the amazing efforts of students and staff who go above and beyond. From organising food bank donations to supporting local causes, these acts of service deserve recognition. Celebrating IVD also encourages more students to get involved, fostering a culture of generosity and collaboration.

Ways to Mark the Day

• Record your Work: use your student (and teacher) planners to track volunteer hours and achievements.
• Yearbook Highlights: dedicate pages in your yearbook to feature inspiring stories of student volunteers and their impact.
• Custom Hoodies for Helpers: order personalised hoodies for teams of volunteers, making them stand out even more in the community.
• Organise a Celebration Assembly: this not only celebrates volunteers and their work but also makes them feel valued. Peers and colleagues can be motivated to follow their example.

The Lasting Impact

Volunteering teaches students that small actions can create big changes. By integrating volunteer recognition into school traditions—through planners, yearbooks, and hoodies—you reinforce the message that giving back is something to be proud of. It’s a simple yet powerful way to nurture a generation that cares.

This International Volunteer Day, celebrate the everyday heroes in your school and inspire future ones. Because when students learn the joy of helping others, they’re not just shaping their own future—they are shaping a better world.

Link to:

Primary Planner

Academic Planner

Yearbooks

Hoodies

Oodles