Wednesday Night Group at Forres Academy offers varied entertainment for children with additional support needs
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A SOCIAL group for school age children with additional support needs is looking forward to its summer holiday activities.
The Wednesday Night Group (WNG) - which meets fortnightly at Forres Academy Hub from 6-7.30pm - has already had a number of themed sessions this year, including celebrations of Burns Night and Chinese New Year - now WNG leader Lesley Mawhinney and her team are organising even more fun for attendees.
She said: “We’ve also enjoyed a game of Boccia (seated bowling) with support from Forres Academy PE teacher Scott Fraser, S6 pupils undertaking a leadership module and Paul Rogan of Active Schools.
“Attendees especially appreciated the support from people nearer their own age. Alison Shaw of Disability Scotland travelled from Aberdeenshire to join in - she had some very positive feedback!
“We like to celebrate the seasons and our mad March party includes a visit from the Easter Bunny who leaves chocolate eggs.
“Thanks to Forres Tesco’s community champion for donating half of the eggs this year. We also had pin the tail on the Easter bunny and a team egg and spoon race.”
A typical WNG session involves seasonal arts and crafts. There are also baking events.
“We have access to the kitchen as well as the assembly hall for parties, games etc,” said Lesley. “Burns Night is a nice way to kick off the year, with the haggis being presented by a nominated group member and a tribute to all those who attend recited in Doric, and celebrating everyone’s attributes.
“We’ve also celebrated Italian, Spanish and Indian nights over the years.”
WNG is grateful for the ongoing support of the wider community.
Lesley said: “We were amazed when we received £100 from The Corporation of Square Men and £470 from Mike McInnes of Cork Degree from The Masonic Lodge. This will go towards summer activities during the holidays.
“Last year, these included sessions with Elgin Kart Raceway, Highland Bike Ability and bowling.
“This year we hope to take in a tour of the Tolbooth and go on a mystery trail around Elgin.
“We love to follow clues so detective trails kits are perfect for us. We had a 100 square fundraiser recently and the winner of first prize, Steph Grier, bought the Aberdeenshire Detective Mystery for us to enjoy during the summer holidays.”
WNG is supported by volunteers who give up free time to join in the fun.
Lesley said: “WNG wouldn’t be manageable without Irene Muircroft, Maggie Bell, Lorraine King, Pam Reid and Wendy Swail.
“Our peer mentor at the moment is Ava Rooke (14) who shows a special aptitude for the role.”
She added: “Our volunteers usually have a background in education and social care. Peer mentors can be anyone of school age who is interested in pursuing a career in any of these areas and require vocational experience.
“I have had young people achieve Duke of Edinburgh awards through volunteering with us who I’ve provided references for.
“The main qualifications are to have a good sense of fun and enjoy spending time helping others!”
For more information call Lesley on 07860219443.
