On Thursday evening, the Alford Academy YPI Finals took place.

The Youth and Philanthropy Initiative (YPI) is an active citizenship programme which empowers pupils to make a difference in their local communities while developing a host of skills. Each participating school each year is responsible for directing a £3000 YPI grant to a local charity through a unique programme of teamwork, research and competition. Seven groups of S5 pupils stood on our theatre stage and presented compelling reasons as to why their chosen charity should receive this grant.

The judging panel, comprising of Councillor Latham, Tracey Latham and our Head Prefects, aided by Margaret Thompson from YPI Scotland, had a difficult decision choosing a winner. In his comments, Councillor Latham had praise for all groups and noted the high quality of all performances.

The ultimate winners – Mia, Leoni, Reiss and Caitlin, representing SAMH gave us a powerful, emotional and hard hitting presentation which resonated with all who saw it.

The final is the last, public step in a long journey that our S5 pupils have been on this year during PSE. Exploring and connecting with their wider community and the Third Sector, our pupils have developed skills in research, analysis, presentation, and communication, which all contribute to a student’s growth, and confidence.

YPI is managed and principally funded by The Wood Foundation. It’s Deputy Director, Jonathan Christie attended the event and commented:

“Without exception, each and every team delivered impeccable presentations, each unique in their style, content and creativity. Whether highlighting the scale and severity of issues such as youth mental health or advocating on behalf of young people impacted by severe, life limiting conditions, the manner in which each team talked about their chosen charities had grit. Real, genuine substance.

Despite over 275 secondary schools participating in YPI across Scotland, it is rare to attend a final of such quality. Over and above what unfolded on stage, there was so much else going on behind the scenes, whether that be mentoring, volunteering or fundraising across the school community.

Looking around the room you could not help but notice the many proud faces: teachers, parents & young people. This was a special evening whereby young people, empowered by their amazing teachers, demonstrated the power and importance of youth voice.”

We are incredibly proud of all our pupils who took part in this event. We thank you. You have all exceeded our expectations and shown real skills and qualities which will benefit you as you move forward in life.

We would also like to thank our Mentors who worked with the groups, Mr Trueman and his team who ran a fantastic evening behind the scenes, our Judging panel and to our charities and their representatives.

The Guidance Team