Two West Lothian schools, were recognised at a national award ceremony in Edinburgh for pupil-run social enterprises.
Fifty-six schools from across Scotland were celebrated for social enterprise projects established in their schools at the 15th Annual Social Enterprise Academy Awards, hosted at the Assembly Rooms in Edinburgh.
And among the winners were James Young High School and St Margaret’s Academy, both of Livingston.
Innovated in partnership with The Scottish Government in 2007, Social Enterprise Schools enables every young person to step up, realise their potential, and create the change they want to see in the world through purpose-driven businesses.
Schools from across the country were celebrated for their creative and expressive examples of social enterprise and 25 of the schools showcased their enterprise at a special social enterprise marketplace on the day.
The James Young High School was one of the schools celebrated on the day for its fruit waste recycling initiative.
Head teacher Tricia Gallagher said: “We are delighted to be recognised for the school’s commitment to social enterprise at the Social Enterprise Academy Awards. Social Enterprise plays an important role in the development of our pupils and it is wonderful to see them channel their natural enthusiasm towards creating the change they want to see in the world. Congratulations to all of the schools recognised at this special event.”
Cabinet Secretary for Education and Skills, Shirley-Anne Somerville joined the celebration to show her support and congratulate young people on their success. She said: “Social Enterprise Schools plays an extremely important role in the development of Scotland’s young people as we recover from Covid-19. By establishing a social enterprise in their school, pupils are engaging in the practical and creative skills required to run a business while making a difference to causes they truly care about. They are gaining in confidence and improving their own wellbeing as well as that of their peers and local community.
“It has been wonderful to play a part in such a special day as we come together to celebrate the success of schools from across Scotland. I look forward to supporting the Social Enterprise Academy as it continues to offer the programme to even more schools across the country.”
Around 400 people attended the awards, made up of young people from schools, colleges and universities, teachers, lecturers, family members, business partners and other guests.
Neil McLean, CEO at the Social Enterprise Academy, said: “By giving young people a real-life experience of running their own social enterprise in school, our programme delivers transformational learning which impacts them and their community. The young people participating are of all ages and abilities, and they are passionate and articulate advocates of social enterprise, not only inspiring people in their own communities, but also people and communities across the world in countries such as Australia, Malaysia, Egypt and South Africa. Thanks to support from The Scottish Government, we aim to give every school in Scotland the opportunity to create their own social enterprise by 2024.
“The Social Enterprise Academy Awards is always such a special day that brings everyone together to share their success and swap ideas. A huge congratulations to every student involved!”
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