Empowering P7 Pupils Through Personal Development Activity Week
In October 2022, eight Primary 7 pupils from Keiss Primary School embarked on a transformative 5-day Personal Development Course at Fairburn Residential Outdoor Centre in Muir of Ord. This initiative is an annual excursion, and feedback regularly shows increased confidence levels, improved interaction skills, and increased physical and mental wellbeing among children who attend the course.
One of the purposes of the course is to help Primary 7 pupils transition to secondary school by providing a safe, fun, and challenging environment where they can try new activities they wouldn't normally get to do at home. The main goals are to boost self-esteem, build peer support, offer unique learning opportunities, and prepare them for their next big step in education.
During the five days, the eight pupils took part in various activities at the Fairburn activity centre, including building challenges, teamwork exercises, and various sporting activities. These activities were designed to push them out of their comfort zones while ensuring they had a great time and got to try something new.
The school staff who attended the trip reported that the children were able to build social connections, develop problem-solving skills, and regain confidence in group settings. They learned to challenge their limits, work together, and embrace new experiences outside their usual school environment. The trip creates a supportive educational experience that goes beyond traditional classroom learning, whilst still being structured and safe.
A grant of £1,200 from the Stroupster Wind Farm Community Benefit Fund contributed to the overall costs of the trip, reducing the cost for each family by £150.
Christina Calder, Keiss School Parent Council member said:
The children really enjoyed their trip to Fairburn. Without the funding from the Stroupster Wind Farm Community Fund, the children would not be able to participate in this fantastic learning experience and to aid their transition into secondary school. The children learned valuable skills and independence away from their families for the first time. The children talked about the experience at school assemblies and parents and the school staff team have all commented on how the children have grown independence and confidence since attending Fairburn.