Frankie’s GDST Travel Scholarship: a life changing experience at a Spanish dog shelter

Alumna Frankie Docker was awarded a GDST travel scholarship, giving her the unique opportunity to volunteer at a greyhound rescue centre in Spain. Read about her inspiring journey….

“When I was 17 years old and studying at Sheffield Girls’, I came across Galgos del Sol. As part of my Spanish A-Level, I had to deliver a five-minute presentation for my aural exam on any topic. I decided to focus on animal cruelty, as it was often highlighted in the media, particularly in relation to bullfighting and festivals.

“As I delved deeper into their story, I realised that I wanted to do more than just deliver a presentation”

During my research, I stumbled upon Galgos del Sol, an organisation dedicated to rescuing Galgos (Spanish Greyhounds). It is estimated that 60,000 to 100,000 Galgos are abandoned every year in Spain, largely due to hunting practices. Led by Tina Solera, who had set up the charity in 2007 from her flat, Galgos del Sol had grown into a centre equipped with a veterinary clinic, quarantine facilities and 300 kennels designed for Galgos in need of a home.

As I delved deeper into their story, I realised that I wanted to do more than just deliver a presentation – I wanted to go out there and volunteer. I was very fortunate to receive the GDST travel scholarship, which gave me the opportunity to travel to Spain and witness the work of Galgos del Sol first-hand.

Despite originally hoping to go after finishing school, COVID-19 delayed my plans. Nonetheless, a few years later, having graduated from university, and with some time to spare, I finally had the opportunity to visit Galgos del Sol. I packed my bags, along with plenty of dog treats, and headed out to Murcia.

On my first day at the centre, I was picked up from my hotel by another volunteer, who, coincidentally, also attended a GDST school. As we approached the centre, I felt a thrill seeing the bright yellow Galgos del Sol logo and hearing the barks of dogs echoing across the Murcian landscape.

“I am so grateful that GDST gave me the opportunity to be part of such an impactful mission”

My week at the centre was filled with activities: walking dogs, cleaning kennels, and assisting with vet check-ups. I even participated in an airport visit where several dogs were being sent to new homes around the world. Despite being in rural Murcia, it felt like I was part of a global network of dogs, owners, centres, and volunteers all working together to rehabilitate these wonderful animals.

Indeed, Galgos del Sol was as much an education centre as it was a rescue facility. While I was there, I saw a volunteer leading a session with a school, as part of a programme they provided to educate children on the plight of the Galgo. Establishing these programmes enabled them to break down the cycle that had perpetuated the Galgo’s mistreatment in Murcia.

Reflecting on my journey from researching Galgos del Sol for a school project to volunteering at the centre, I am so grateful that GDST gave me the opportunity to be part of such an impactful mission. This experience has, without a doubt, deepened my passion for animal welfare and motivated me to continue advocating for those who cannot speak for themselves.”

The GDST Travel Scholarship

The GDST is delighted to offer a range of scholarships for year 13 students wishing to undertake travel as part of their personal or professional development or wishing to make a contribution to another community. These students might be travelling in the summer prior to University, or undertaking a gap year. The competition is tough each year with a very high standard of applicants. Thanks to the GDST Travel Scholarships, these alumnae take part in fantastic projects across the world.

The GDST Alumnae Network

As a GDST alumna, Frankie is part of the GDST Alumnae Network – the largest organisation of its kind in the country. There are over 100,000 GDST alumnae from across our family of 25 all-girls schools and the network is increasing every year.

Find out more about the GDST Alumnae Network