Nairn woman’s vision for inclusivity for all landed her on the New Year Honours List
In an extraordinary testament to resilience, innovation, and compassion, Kirstin Grant has been named to the New Year’s Honours List for her tireless efforts in supporting young people with additional support needs.
A dedicated police officer and former pupil support assistant at Nairn Academy, Kirstin’s work has opened doors for young people to achieve what once seemed impossible.
Being made an MBE came as a surprise to Kirstin (49), as her pivotal role in ensuring inclusivity within the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award (DofE) programme at Nairn Academy was highlighted.
“To be honest, I have been shocked,” she shared. “When I first got the letter, I had my daughter read it again. It was unexpected and overwhelming.”
Kirstin’s journey began with a vision: to make the DofE Award accessible to young people with additional support needs.
Over her time at Nairn Academy, she worked with a unique group of students, crafting a programme tailored to their individual abilities. From Bronze to Silver to Gold, the path was filled with challenges, but Kirstin’s determination never wavered.
“These young people see the world differently,” she said.
“We found ways to include sensory experiences and adjusted the training to fit their needs. Their award is the exact same – they meet the same standards, just approached in a different way.”
The journey to Gold was particularly arduous.
Amid the chaos of Covid, Kirstin balanced preparing students for their final expedition while transitioning to her new role as a police officer.
“It took six years, but we did it,” she shared.
Kirstin attributes the success of the program to a community effort. Parents, teachers, and volunteers, including local councillor and maths teacher Tom Heggie, rallied behind the vision.
Coffee mornings funded minibuses, meticulous planning ensured dietary needs were met, and countless hours were spent navigating logistical challenges.
“It worked because everyone wanted them to succeed,” she said.
“The parents were amazing in their organisation, making sure everything was packed and prepared. But in the end, it was the young people who truly shone. Their resilience was inspiring.”
One of the most emotional moments came during the Gold expedition. “For one girl, her mum supported her through every previous stage. But during the final one, she did it on her own. That was the most amazing accomplishment.”
Kirstin also recalled the incredible perseverance of a young boy in a wheelchair. “We faced not just physical barriers but organisational ones too. Everyone worked together to make it happen. By the end, we were all exhausted, but there was this overwhelming feeling of pride – we did it.”
Reflecting on the moment the group completed their final expedition, Kirstin shared, “We finished at Speyside, and after four days and three nights, there was this big group hug. It was the most amazing feeling. This is not what giving up looks like.”
The recognition of Kirstin’s work has prompted her to reflect on the transformative power of the DofE Award. “Everything we do in life should be accessible to everyone. The DofE is a holistic award. It teaches teamwork, resilience, and skills for life.”
Her personal connection to the award runs deep, as she’s watched her own son grow through it.
“My son completed Bronze, Silver, and Gold. It’s an award of dedication, and it speaks volumes. He was able to pull examples from it during a job interview—it helps young people prepare for adult life.”
As she looks forward to attending the ceremony at Holyrood to see her students receive their awards, Kirstin remains deeply humbled.
“I still can’t believe it. To be acknowledged with an MBE is such a beautiful thing. I’m so proud of the young people and their parents who trusted us to look after them.”
The recognition has been a moment of reflection for Kirstin, thinking back on the obstacles they faced. “It’s made me rethink our journey and all the barriers we had to overcome. Finding unique ways for them to have the opportunity - it just worked, and it grew.”
