February, a time of new beginnings and the celebration of Science Week at Shenzhen College of International Education (SCIE), provided the perfect opportunity to combine scientific curiosity with compassionate action.
On the 4th, SCIE hosted a staff blood donation drive, welcoming the Shenzhen Blood Center’s mobile donation vehicle onto campus. The initiative was not only a collective act of community service but also a vivid practical lesson in life education.
The event was initiated by Physics Teacher Dr. Neto. Guided by the belief that science serves life and education is rooted in practice, he actively promoted this campus initiative that brings together public service and scientific learning.
He hopes to help students learn to respect life, care for society, and understand the human dimension behind science through real-world engagement.
Dr. Neto led by example, being among the first to donate. Afterwards, he spoke with Dr. Guo Zhenzhen from the Shenzhen Blood Center to learn more about donation intervals for whole blood and apheresis. His question — “How soon can I donate again?” — reflected the true spirit of dedication: not a one-time gesture, but an ongoing commitment.
Under organized arrangements, interested students were given the opportunity to board the blood donation vehicle to observe the equipment and procedures up close. Through on-site explanations and firsthand observation, they gained an intuitive understanding of topics such as blood pressure monitoring, the functions of red blood cells and platelets, and the sophistication of the human circulatory system, as well as the medical significance of blood donation.
Academic Deputy Principal and Biology & Chemistry Teacher Mr. Stonier also introduced students to the early experiments involving rhesus monkeys that contributed to the discovery of the Rh blood group system, vividly linking abstract immunology concepts with real-world medical and public health applications.
Senior PE teacher and sports matches coordinator Mr. Bob de Wet, known for his professionalism on the sports field, also took part in the blood donation activity, demonstrating the meaning of dedication through action.
Head of Sociology Mr. Aldred likewise rolled up his sleeve, putting into practice the civic responsibility and social care he teaches, and adding a vivid dimension to his subject’s values.
Chemistry Teacher Ms. Kim and English Teacher Mr. Harwood once again stepped forward to donate blood, turning compassion into a sustained habit and setting an example for students that persistence truly matters.
Economics Teacher and A2 Head of Year Mr. Gollings also actively participated. Although the event was not open to students, his involvement carried particular significance, especially for A2 students approaching 18 year old.
By leading through action, he conveyed a sense of social responsibility and mutual support, helping students understand that adulthood involves moving from individual growth toward contributing to the wider community.
Global Perspectives and Mathematics teachers Mr. and Mrs. Nicolas donated blood together, bringing their young children onto the blood donation vehicle to experience this special lesson in life education.
When their child looked up and asked, “When can I donate blood too?”, gentle laughter spread through the space. This moment was more than simple childhood curiosity — it was the quiet passing on of care and responsibility.
Through such teaching by example, the seeds of social responsibility are planted early, and the spirit of dedication continues into the next generation’s journey of growth.
Pastoral Assistant Principal Dr. Denisov participated in blood donation and also engaged in a cordial exchange with Ms. Huang Jingya, Deputy Director of the Blood Donation Service Department at the Shenzhen Blood Center.
They discussed experiences from different countries and cultural contexts, covering topics such as blood donation systems, the promotion of a public service culture, and life education for young people.
Their dialogue reflected SCIE’s educational vision of integrating Eastern and Western perspectives while bringing an international and humanistic dimension to campus public welfare initiatives. It also exemplified the school’s educational philosophy of uniting knowledge with action and fostering connections between the school community and wider society.
SCIE Red Cross Society Student President Bonnie and Head of Academic Department Christy served as on-site volunteers, assisting with guidance, maintaining order, and providing interpretation support when needed, helping to ensure the smooth running of the event.
The Support Services Department and Property Management team also responded proactively, becoming indispensable “guardians” of the event. In addition to donating blood themselves, they provided logistical support such as directing parking and assisting with venue setup, ensuring the event proceeded safely and smoothly.
During the event, students Lin and He visited the donation vehicle to learn more, expressing their interest in participating in the future and asking how they could get involved after turning 18.
Dr. Neto and Sharon explained that, given students’ developmental stage and academic commitments, this event was open only to staff. After completing their international examinations, eligible A2 graduates may choose to donate voluntarily at the blood center.
At that point, what they contribute will be not only blood and service, but also the compassion, responsibility, and global perspective developed as young people growing up in Shenzhen — truly stepping forward as responsible global citizens.
Participating teachers came from China, the UK, the USA, South Africa, France, Malaysia, South Korea, and beyond. Though their nationalities differ, their goodwill is shared. We thank everyone who took part, whether in front of the camera or contributing quietly behind the scenes.
You are not only educators in the classroom, but also role models who convey warmth and humanity through action, embodying the deeper meaning of education through selfless giving.
This event was more than a blood donation drive. It brought together public service, humanitarian values, and scientific understanding in a meaningful expression of life education.
Together with other Science Week activities, it helped foster a campus culture that values life, respects science, and is willing to contribute — reflecting SCIE’s ongoing commitment to whole-person education.
- Article / SCIE Medical Office
- Pictures / Shenzhen Blood Center、 Admissions Office
