The Hardcastle family of Clevedon, Somerset are busy raising funds to be our very first family aboard The Book Bus.

Planning to volunteer in May 2009, the family are currently preparing for this working holiday.

 “We are thrilled to be having a family aboard” said Jo Payne of The Book Bus, “Especially as Helen Hardcastle will be our very first volunteer UK teacher. This will enable us to focus on developing the skills of community school teachers. It is volunteers like the Hardcastle’s which can really add depth and backbone to our project”

Tom (aged 10) and Anna (aged 9) along with Dad (Jim), are all avid readers. Their enthusiasm for this project is clear. As the family project planner, Jim has no doubts that their trip is all about sharing the knowledge and skills the family have been lucky enough to develop.

Swopping an easy beach holiday for a working trip is daunting for the children but as Tom said “It’ll be a great experience!”

The Hardcastle’s are now undertaking a major fundraising campaign to get all four of them out to Zambia.

If you would like to know how you can help Helen, Jim, Tom and Anna then please contact Jo Payne at This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it or call Jo on 0781 727 8889.