A FORMER Stanwell School pupil is set for a life-affirming experience as she prepares to work with native Australian schoolchildren.

Twenty-year-old Beth Johnson has joined Lattitude Global Volunteering and will begin working with indigenous youngsters in the country in July this year.

Miss Johnson, also a former Sully primary pupil, said she got excellent final grades in school, but began to experience bullying and became unhappy with life.

She also said she hopes the opportunity will give her a new sense of fulfilment in life.

“I decided to volunteer as I began to crave more from life,” she added.

“Since I was 16 I have worked in supermarkets and retail outlets and my life became rather monotonous and centred around the routine of seeing the same people and places, and doing the same things every day. I became unhappy. My last year at school was really difficult.

“I began to experience bullying and had already battled some mental health issues around disorder eating.

“Along the way, I realised that I wanted to both help people and challenge myself, whilst also getting away from the negativity I found myself swamped by.

“Australia has always been a bucket list place for me, so the fact I get to visit the country and be helping children at the same time is amazing.

“Words cannot describe how grateful I am to Lattitude for giving me this opportunity.”

A program manager with Lattitude Global Volunteering suggested an indigenous placement to Miss Jones, for a more mentally and physically challenging experience.

Miss Johnson added: “The placement will involve me teaching and living in a boarding school, aiding children both during and in between lesson time.”

Miss Johnson has set a fundraising goal of £5,500 to cover the costs involved.

To donate or find out more information, visit www.justgiving.com/beth-to-australia