The Promise Report was a landmark review of Scotland’s care system, aiming to transform the lives of care-experienced children by ensuring they feel safe, loved, and supported. Its findings highlighted the need for meaningful change in how society cares for and listens to these young people. At our school, we have taken these principles to heart by creating our own Promise Group—a dedicated space where our care-experienced pupils can come together, share their experiences, and access tailored support. Through this group, we provide opportunities for them to build friendships, try new activities, and feel a sense of belonging within the school community. By embracing The Promise, we are committed to making a real difference in their lives, ensuring they feel valued, heard, and empowered.
Our Promise Group is strengthened by the incredible support of our many partners, who help us provide meaningful opportunities for our care-experienced pupils. Organisations such as AFC, Outward Bound, and Live Life Aberdeenshire play a vital role in enriching the experiences of our young people, offering everything from sports and outdoor adventures to creative and wellbeing activities. These partnerships ensure that our pupils have access to a wide range of opportunities that build confidence, develop new skills, and create positive memories. By working together, we can offer a supportive network that helps our care-experienced children feel included, valued, and inspired to reach their full potential.
Our promise group began in May 2024 and we have a differnet partner and goal each term.
Our Promise Group had the incredible opportunity to take part in the 10ft Tall drama project, a powerful initiative designed to give care-experienced young people a voice through performance and storytelling. This project allowed our pupils to express themselves creatively, build confidence, and explore their own experiences in a safe and supportive environment. Through drama workshops, they developed new skills, worked collaboratively, and found a platform to share their stories in a way that was both meaningful and empowering. Being part of 10ft Tall was an unforgettable experience, helping our young people feel heard, valued, and capable of achieving great things.
Our Promise Group also had the fantastic opportunity to take part in Penny’s underwater-themed art lessons, where they explored creativity and self-expression through a vibrant and immersive project. Guided by Penny’s expertise, the pupils experimented with different artistic techniques, drawing inspiration from the ocean to create stunning pieces that reflected their imagination and individuality. The project culminated in a special art exhibition, where their work was proudly displayed, celebrating their talent and the journey they had taken through art. This experience not only built their artistic skills but also boosted their confidence and sense of achievement, showing them that their voices and creativity matter.
Live Life Aberdeenshire played a crucial role in supporting our Promise Group by teaching all our children how to ride a bike, a skill that brings both independence and joy. Through patient guidance and encouragement, their team helped each child gain confidence, overcome challenges, and experience the thrill of cycling. For many, this was a brand-new experience, and the sense of achievement in mastering it was truly inspiring. Beyond just learning to ride, the sessions promoted resilience, wellbeing, and a love for the outdoors. Thanks to Live Life Aberdeenshire, our young people now have the skills and confidence to enjoy cycling for years to come.
Aberdeen Football Club has been an invaluable partner in supporting our Promise Group, helping our young people develop key life skills through the power of sport. Their sessions focused not only on football techniques but also on teamwork, resilience, and perseverance—skills that are just as important off the pitch as they are on it. Through engaging drills and match play, our pupils learned to support one another, push through challenges, and celebrate their achievements together. The experience was not only fun but also empowering, giving them a sense of belonging and confidence in their own abilities. Thanks to AFC, our young people have gained valuable lessons that will stay with them far beyond the game.
We also had the amazing opporutnity to go to Loch Eil for 5 days.
Our Promise Group had an unforgettable experience during our five-day residential at Loch Eil with Outward Bound, where we embraced adventure, challenged ourselves, and built lifelong memories. For some of our young people, this was their first time spending a night away from home, making the experience even more significant. Through outdoor activities like canoeing, hillwalking, and team challenges, they discovered resilience, teamwork, and a newfound confidence in their own abilities. The trip was not just about adventure—it was about personal growth, stepping out of comfort zones, and realising that they are capable of more than they ever imagined. Loch Eil was a truly transformative experience, and we returned with stronger friendships, greater self-belief, and a sense of achievement that will stay with us forever.
Some Pictures from Loch Eil
Cameron from AFC has taught us all so much about team work and reslience.
Live Life Aberdeenshire - Teaching us all how to ride bikes!