Happy New Year, everyone!

We hope the new year brings joy and opportunities to our wonderful BPS community. This post is a heartfelt call to action for parents interested in volunteering to keep the cherished P6 skiing tradition alive.

What’s Happening?

For over a decade, BPS has offered Friday morning skiing at Hillend for P6 pupils. It’s a unique, inclusive programme that gives children a chance to learn and develop skiing skills, but this cherished tradition is at risk of disappearing unless we find new parent volunteers willing to step up.

What Does the Programme Involve?

  • Beginner Skiers: An 8-week course from October to December.
  • Advanced Skiers: A separate programme from January to March.
  • This year, we’ve had an impressive 60 beginners and 20 advanced skiers participating!

The skiing sessions provide a longer, more immersive experience than after-school lessons, which are often booked up with long waiting lists. For children who don’t ski, the school offers alternative activities on Fridays, ensuring inclusivity. Financial support is available for families who need it, making this opportunity accessible to all P6 pupils.

Why Do We Need Volunteers?

Volunteers are the backbone of this programme, helping to organize and support the sessions. Without new volunteers, the programme may not continue next year. The school’s head teacher is committed to keeping this tradition alive but needs parents to step up.

What’s in It for You?

  • Learn to Ski: If you’re not a skier, this is your chance to learn!
  • Be Part of a Community: Work alongside other dedicated parents and make a tangible difference in the lives of BPS pupils.
  • Flexibility: Volunteering can be done on a rota basis to accommodate your schedule.

Some of our current volunteers have been so inspired that they’ve continued long after their children left BPS!

Time Commitment & Support

  • Time: Fridays, from 8:15 am (departure) to 12:30 pm (return). Volunteers need to be at Hillend from 9:00 am to 12:00 pm.
  • Training: The school provides necessary training (e.g., First Aid) and covers costs through the parent council. Disclosure checks will also be arranged.
  • Team: You’ll be joining a group of experienced volunteers, including Ingrid, who will guide you through the process during the next seven weeks.

How to Get Involved

If you’re interested or know someone who might be, please contact the school office at [email protected] as soon as possible. Even if you’re just curious, join Ingrid and the current volunteers to see what’s involved and get a proper handover.

Let’s Keep the Tradition Going!

This programme offers a unique experience for our P6 children, and it would be a huge shame to lose it. With your help, we can ensure future generations of BPS pupils continue to benefit from this amazing opportunity.

Spread the word, rally your friends, and let’s continue to keep the skiing tradition alive!