Funding boost for project to improve learning opportunities for young Fifers

The programme has received £70,000 to help Children’s University Scotland extend its reach in Fife, with a particular focus on developing a more comprehensive learning offer, in partnership with the College, for children and young people experiencing disadvantage.

Children’s University Scotland aims to inspire a love of learning beyond the classroom that enriches children’s lives and transforms their prospects.

The charity currently supports over 4,000 children and young people experiencing poverty and disadvantage across Scotland including rural communities and urban areas.

The funding, awarded by The Robertson Trust, will also be used to complement the already successful First Chances Fife programme, which aims to break down barriers to learning by providing unique learning experiences for school pupils in Fife.

A joint partnership between the College, the University of St Andrews, The Robertson Trust, the Scottish Funding Council and Fife Schools, Fife Chances Fife raises aspirations and attainment of pupils from P7 to S6 throughout their school journey, giving them continued support into further and higher education.

Neil Mathers, chief executive at Children’s University Scotland welcomes the opportunity to enhance enjoyable learning opportunities for Fife children and families.

“We have wanted to offer support for wider learning to more families in Fife for some time, and our involvement in this partnership will enable us to realise that ambition.

"Enjoyable learning activities outside of formal schooling can have a transformative impact on children’s lives through enhancing wellbeing, boosting confidence, and developing new skills.

“Thanks to this funding from The Robertson Trust, we are looking forward to supporting many more young people in Fife through this expanded partnership.”

Iain Hawker, Assistant Principal – Quality and Academic Partnerships at Fife College, said: “We are delighted to receive this funding from The Robertson Trust.

“The funds will help us strengthen our partnership with Children’s University Scotland as well as enhancing the First Chances Fife programme.

“Colleges are intrinsic in helping create a fairer society providing a route to education for learners of all ages and from all environments. By continuing to work together with our partners on initiatives like this, we can maximise our overall effect, widening opportunities and transforming the lives of young people across Fife."

DonnaMarie Steel, scholarship officer at The Robertson Trust, said: “As a long-term partner of Fife College, we know first-hand the fantastic work being done with children and young people across Fife already.

“The Robertson Trust’s vision is of a fair and compassionate Scotland where everyone is valued and able to flourish.

“Removing barriers to further and higher education is key to this and we are excited to see how this new partnership with Children’s University Scotland complements First Chances Fife and opens up more opportunities in the area.”

The Robertson Trust, the largest independent grant-making Trust in Scotland, aims to improve life and realise potential of people and communities across the country through a variety of grant and scholarship programmes.

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