Watford-based crisis response charity, Goods for Good, has been named as Oaklands official charity partner for 2025–2026, marking a significant step in a growing collaboration focused on humanitarian support and youth engagement.

The announcement comes ahead of a major student-led event on Monday 2nd June, when Oaklands will host a 24-hour “Packathon” at our St Albans campus. The event will see students, staff, and volunteers packing a lorry-load of essential supplies, including clothing and consumables destined for communities in crisis across the UK and globally. 

Each box will bear the logos of both Oaklands and Goods for Good, along with the name of the student who packed it. This personal touch aims to connect local efforts with global impact, reinforcing the value of community-driven aid. 

“We are absolutely delighted to deepen our partnership with Goods for Good,” said Rob Metcalfe, Vice Principal, Quality, Student Experience and Progression at Oaklands College. “The energy and compassion of these students is inspiring. Together, we’re not just packing supplies, we’re delivering hope.” 

Goods for Good has been working with Oaklands for over a year. Previous collaborations have included student work placements, careers fairs, pop-up fundraising events, and donation drives. In February 2024, a trio of students joined the charity for a successful work experience programme. 

Founded in 2014, Goods for Good has delivered more than 2.5m tons of essential goods to people in need across more than 30 countries. The charity repurposes surplus items from businesses and individuals to provide vital support in humanitarian emergencies, while also helping reduce environmental waste.

The June Packathon reflects both organisations’ shared mission: empowering young people, reducing waste, and responding with dignity and urgency to human need.