Airdrie Academy pupils shine at education event

Jan 6 2010 by Ian Bunting, Airdrie & Coatbridge

S4 Airdrie Academy pupils took centre stage at the annual Association of Directors of Education in Scotland.

The students showcased the outstanding work they have completed on The Prince’s Trust Scotland’s xlerate with xl programme.

The 15-strong group facilitated a one-hour workshop for directors of education and councillors from throughout Scotland, giving them an opportunity to demonstrate the new skills they have developed during their time on xl.

They had prepared a number of Discovery Boxes, each containing a range of interactive activities including special effects make-up, how to read music and cake making, and invited education chiefs and councillors to get involved.

The pupils also designed and hosted their own xlerate with xl conference stand and took time to speak to attendees about what they have been working on in the past two years and the difference it has made to their education.

Jane Liddell, Head of Education, Quality and Development at North Lanarkshire Council said: “The S4 xl pupils from Airdrie Academy are a credit to their school and to North Lanarkshire Council.

“They clearly worked very hard with their teachers, the partnership officer and advisors to devise a fun and engaging programme for the conference attendees and it was inspiring to see the group working so well together and interacting with all of the guests.”

Geraldine Gammell, Director of The Prince's Trust Scotland added: “I’d like to thank the S4 xl pupils from Airdrie Academy for being outstanding ambassadors of the xlerate with xl programme.

“They truly showcased the programme and the difference it can make in young lives, and should be commended for all their efforts.”

The Prince’s Trust’s xlerate with xl programme is run in partnership with North Lanarkshire Council and is an alternative learning programme which helps S3 and S4 pupils to develop skills and re-engage with their school and education.