Why We Do It: Rediscovering Purpose With Volunteering (by Alex Starkie, Owner)

The Early Days: Teaching for the Moments That Matter

“When I first started in education, it was all about the kids. I was there for those moments that made all the difference—their faces lighting up when they grasped something new, the spark of curiosity, and that magical moment when they realised there’s a world beyond the classroom.

Those moments were everything. They were why I got into teaching in the first place—to open young minds to new experiences and offer opportunities they might not otherwise have had.

Moving Into Leadership: The Sacrifices We Make

But as the years went by, the questions started to change. “Can I get more hours?” “Is this a real career?” Eventually, leadership roles came along, and I took the leap into starting NOVUS. With that, my role evolved, and I found myself seeing less of those magical moments with the children.

I know many business owners in our industry, headteachers, and members of senior leadership teams will relate. As we progress, personally and for the greater good, we often have to step away from the day-to-day interactions with the children. It’s a necessary sacrifice to ensure they get the best provision. But I’d be lying if I said I didn’t miss those moments.

Rediscovering Purpose Through Community Partnerships

That’s why our partnership at NOVUS with Community of Purpose CIC has been so meaningful to me. Projects like their Break Free holiday programme have allowed us to reconnect with young people in ways that remind me exactly why I started this journey.

Growing up, I was fortunate—holidays were filled with opportunities, experiences, and never an empty belly. Sadly, not every child in Bristol has that luxury. With 25% of the year spent out of school, many children miss out on essential services like free school meals during the holidays.

Spending time with these children this summer gave me a renewed sense of purpose. It reminded me of why I began in education all those years ago.

So, a huge thank you to the entire team at Community of Purpose CIC for making this possible. We can’t wait to see what’s next and to continue working together to create brighter futures for the children of Bristol.

At the end of the day, that’s why we do it.”

Alex Starkie
Owner, NOVUS