Pupils at Ullapool High School are set to benefit from a £1,500 community grant from Tesco, helping the school continue delivering the Duke of Edinburgh Award and giving young people the chance to build confidence, skills and a strong sense of community.
The funding has been awarded through Tesco’s Stronger Starts programme and will support pupils taking part in the Duke of Edinburgh Award, a nationally recognised programme that encourages commitment, teamwork, communication and physical activity.
Ullapool High School is one of the few remaining schools in the area still offering the award, which relies heavily on fundraising, community support and access to essential equipment to allow pupils to complete their expeditions safely and inclusively.
The impact of the programme stretches far beyond the classroom, with parents, guardians and local volunteers playing a key role in supporting participants, assessing activities and helping young people complete different stages of the award.
Previous activities have seen pupils support the British Legion by helping to maintain the war victims’ graveyard and spend time visiting elderly residents at Lochbroom House, strengthening links between generations and reinforcing the value of service within the community.
Teacher Jemma Middleton said the programme plays a vital role in both personal development and community connection.
“It is vital that we can continue to offer this programme so students can grow into well-rounded members of the community, both personally and academically.
“It is equally important for Ullapool that we maintain opportunities which positively connect young people and adults, and we are extremely grateful to Tesco for supporting our pupils on their Duke of Edinburgh journey.”
Claire DeSilva, Head of Community for Tesco, said supporting schools in rural and Highland communities was an important part of the retailer’s work.
“At Tesco we believe it’s incredibly important to support local schools, community groups and charities throughout Scotland, including in and around the North West Highlands.
“We hope this funding will make a real difference for pupils and their families and help ease some of the pressures schools face during the current cost of living challenges.”
Tesco Stronger Starts works in partnership with Groundwork and Greenspace to deliver community grants across Scotland, supporting projects that help young people thrive and strengthening the communities around them.
