Pupils pride in giving back to their local community
Posted on 7 Mar 2024
A GROUP of pupils at Auchenharvie Academy made and donated a garden bench and planters to a local nursing home – inspiring them to do even more for their local community.
The Pupil Ambassadors – young people from s1 and s6 – have been working with Principal Teacher of Design & Technology David Marwick and technical staff member Mr Morrison.
Giving up their lunchbreaks, the 18 pupils have been working to create and build items that can be used by others in the community.
Recently, they dropped off the bench and three planters to Abbotsford Care home – much to the delight and joy of the elderly residents.
Now, after seeing the impact they had at the care home, the Ambassadors are looking to build and provide even more items for their community.
David said: “It’s been fantastic for the young people and lovely to see how much they’ve gotten from going into the care home and donating the bench and planters.
“Some of our kids maybe lack a bit of self-confidence and don’t find things easy. I know some of them were really nervous about going into the care home as they were going outside their comfort zone. they managed to do it and it’s all about challenging them to get out of their comfort zone.
“As we know Auchenharvie Academy is situated in one of the most deprived areas in Scotland. The kids care about their communities and want to give something back. It’s been fantastic to see them work so hard and then see the rewards when they make the donation.”
The Pupil Ambassadors don’t want to stop there and are looking to do even more for their community – and looking for support from local businesses.
David added: “The kids can try and turn their hand to anything so we can make bespoke items but they are really confident making benches and planters and these are always really popular.
“We would love to help out a local nursery, care home or any group really. So if you are needing something please get in touch with the school and we will endeavour to do our best.
“If any local builders have any old cut offs or supplies they don’t need we would also kindly take some donations to help the kids.
“I’m incredibly proud of the pupils and its great seeing how much they are enjoying giving something back to their community.”
Councillor Shaun Macaulay, Cabinet Member for Education, said: “A huge well done to all the pupils for their hard work – it is a great initiative and they are giving something back to the community. They will learn a lot from it.
“I look forward to finding out what else they have made over the coming weeks.”