November’s ‘Charity Week’ at Biggar High saw £3,000 pounds raised for people living with dementia after school pupils nominated Alzheimer Scotland to receive the funds.
Each year the pupil leaders lead on organising a series of fundraising events with the recipient charity chosen through a vote. All pupils have the opportunity to nominate a cause close to their hearts. Once a shortlist has been drawn up, those charities are presented at a video assembly before majority vote picks a winner.
Emilie Jo Galbraith, who nominated Alzheimer Scotland, said, “My grandad was one of the millions of loved ones with Alzheimer’s. As someone who has witnessed and experienced the impact of this disease, I want to do all I can to prevent others from experiencing it - and I’m sure those who have been impacted by it feel the same”
The week long fundraising marathon included a variety of different events such as a staff vs pupils football and netball matches, a spelling bee, and a ‘wear your pyjamas to school’ day. Thanks to these events, cash collections at break time, and parent contributions, the school raised £3,000.
Robert Stewart, Headteacher at Biggar High School said, “I am delighted that we have managed in trying circumstances to raise such a significant sum for such a worthy cause and would thank all in our school community for their generosity in supporting Alzheimer Scotland.”
Jess Bruce, Communications and Campaigns Officer at Alzheimer Scotland commented, “We are delighted to have been selected by Biggar High students to receive their Charity Week fundraising, and very impressed with all their hard work. With over 90000 people living with dementia in Scotland right now, almost everyone knows someone with a diagnosis or has an experience of dementia. We believe nobody should face dementia alone, but we need the support of people like the students of Biggar High to help us make that a reality”.