Inverness Royal Academy teams up with Cotswold Outdoor to get second-hand kit for kids in Duke of Edinburgh scheme
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An Inverness school is urging outdoor enthusiasts to donate their second-hand clothing and equipment to help youngsters.
During March, Inverness Royal Academy wants people to hand their kit in at the city's Cotswold Outdoor store in Longman Road or at the academy sports centre.
The scheme – Kit for Kids – is a joint venture between the school’s Duke of Edinburgh group and Cycling Hub, spearheaded by PE teacher Jane Chisholm.
Donated kit will be used by pupils for overnight expeditions, bikepacking, mountain biking and outdoor learning.
The school's Duke of Edinburgh scheme has more than 100 pupils enrolled and Mrs Chisholm is hoping that this will expand the group and make it more accessible to a wider range of pupils.
The Cycle Hub project has brought together a variety of organisations to improve access to cycling for pupils.
Funding from sportscotland and Cycling Scotland enabled the school to purchase a fleet of bikes which are used after school, in lessons and by pupils attending the school nurture base, The Bothy.
Volunteers and staff lead bike rides, bike maintenance sessions and encourage more pupils to cycle to school.
With access to suitable clothing and equipment, Mrs Chisholm says that more pupils will be able to participate in these activities including 'Overnight on a School Night', the school’s annual bikepacking and bivying adventure.
She said: "Being in nature, learning how to enjoy and care for the outdoors, is something that should be available to all young people regardless of background or circumstance. Here at Inverness Royal Academy we want to overcome these barriers so that all pupils can experience the physical and mental wellbeing and learning opportunities that come from outdoor activities."
The Cotswold Outdoor store is offering 20 per cent off full-price items in exchange for donations, subject to terms and conditions.
