Cashew Tree School

Cashew Tree School, opened in 1998, provides schooling for nearly 200 four to six year olds. It is within 200 yards of a massive rubbish dump called Payatas on the outskirts of Manila. This purpose built school runs classes for the poorest children from the most disadvantaged families who exist solely by scavenging through rubbish for anything of value. Their homes are made of salvaged scrap, the smell is appalling, the squalor stomach-churning.

The enthusiastic support of parents and children at this well-equipped and well-staffed school has created a huge demand for places. There is no similar facility for the children in the community.