North Ayrshire primary school kids enjoyed some fun-filled activities and healthy food at summer camps hosted by Ardrossan Accies Rugby Club.
The free events were organised by the charities Scottish Junior Sports and Health Trust and Cash for Kids.
(Image: Charlie Gilmour)
Trustee Calum McPherson revealed: “The kids loved the camps. Our purpose is to make sport affordable and accessible to all kids, seeing all the happy smiling faces says it all.”
The charity also provides opportunities for teenagers to gain sports coaching experience.
(Image: Charlie Gilmour)
Stanley Primary School teacher Lesley Richardson said: “The coaches we had on board all brought different skill sets which meant that the children had a very wide, varied experience, enjoying drama, yoga, rugby, golf, athletics and tennis.
"Each activity was delivered with enthusiasm and the kids were highly motivated and had so much fun.”
(Image: Charlie Gilmour)
One coach who delivered the fun-filled sports and activity programme was Lily Taylor, who has completed North Ayrshire’s Active Schools’ sports coach education and training programme, NASA (North Ayrshire Sports Academy) .
She said: “During the camp, I gained so much experience and for that I am super grateful. Calum and Karen planned these camps amazingly well and it was really successful.
(Image: Charlie Gilmour)
"I also got to meet new people, learn new coaching techniques and learn how to handle certain behaviours in children. I would 100 per cent do the whole experience again.
"It was extremely worth it to see all the happy children and to hear the amazing feedback from the parents on a daily basis."
(Image: Charlie Gilmour)
The kids had a great time and parents, guardians and carers were amazed at the generosity and support from both charities.
Mum of three Heather McAllister said: “Summer clubs like these are simply invaluable, especially to working parents of multiple children to whom the summer holidays are a massive source of stress, sometimes to the point where continuing to work isn’t possible.
(Image: Charlie Gilmour)
"My three children attended the summer camp with the Scottish Junior Sports and Health Trust last week and they were delighted, active and engaged throughout.
"I couldn’t believe it was free for the quality and length of the sessions. If only something like this could run throughout the whole holidays – it would make such a massive difference.”
(Image: Charlie Gilmour)
Ayrshire girl Zera, who attended the second week of the camps, said: “Playing outside and having fun was my favourite part. We got to see different people and meet new friends. I loved that!”
The charity is also very grateful to Alan and Ali at Ardrossan Accies Rugby Club who opened their doors to all the kids for breakfast and lunches and indoor activities when it rained.
This is a great example of communities and people coming together to make great experiences happen for children and young people.
For more information about future camps or to get in touch with the charity, visit the website www.sjsht.co.uk or check out their social media ‘Scottish Junior Trust’ on Facebook and Instagram.
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