Actual Reality goes the extra mile to ensure no-one’s left behind

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

20^th December 2012

Actual Reality goes the extra mile to ensure no-one’s left behind

An East Renfrewshire primary school is thanking Actual Reality at Castle Toward for their outstanding efforts in making their school trip a week to remember.

95 pupils, from Our Lady of the Missions Primary 7 class in Giffnock, spent five days at the outdoor education centre from the 8^th- 12^th October 2012. It is the 18^th year in a row a group from this school has visited Actual Reality.

Deputy Head teacher Veronica Dowling has been in charge of taking groups to the Argyll centre. Commenting on why she makes sure they go back each year she said: “I think we share many of the same values as Actual Reality and the ethos of the centre goes hand in hand with ours at Our Lady of the Missions.

“I have been bringing school groups here for 17 years because the week away is a fabulous bonding tool for the student and teachers. The activities offered by Actual Reality get all the youngsters mucking in together whatever the weather which is an experience many of them have never had before.

“We go every year at the beginning of Primary 7 as it’s a very important year for the children as they prepare to go to high school. A few days away working together outside the classroom really boosts their confidence and builds relationships with staff and pupils alike.

“Everyone is challenged during the week with Actual Reality. For some, staying away from home is a big problem, while for others, it’s the high ropes course and the gorge walking that present the biggest hurdles. I would definitely say the trip brings out the best in the students.”

This year the group from Our Lady of the Missions included 11 year old, wheelchair bound, student Nina Miller. Whilst she was unable to take part in some activities, Centre Leader Aidan Doherty, worked to create bespoke abseiling and archery experiences for Nina.

He said: “We wanted to make sure Nina was able to join in the fun with her classmates and by creating specialised activities to fit around her needs we could give her the opportunity to try out things some of the other groups didn’t get to.

“It’s our goal at Actual Reality to ensure every youngster gets the most out of their time with us. We don’t believe disabilities should stop anyone from trying new things and we were happy to put our creative skills to good use. Seeing Nina complete the abseiling course in her chair was a pleasure, as was working with the rest of the students.”

The effort made by Actual Reality meant that Nina was able to take control in the abseiling activity with minimal support from her team leader. The team at Actual Reality also resourced a special archery system for Nina so she was able to hold and shoot the arrows herself.

Deputy Head teacher Veronica Dowling commented: “The Actual Reality staff couldn’t have done more for Nina. They really made sure she had just as an exciting time as everybody else.

“Nina was absolutely thrilled with the set up; the look on her face said it all really. Being able to take part meant she was able to feel that same great confidence boost the rest of the group felt.”

“Overall we had another thoroughly enjoyable week with Actual Reality. In my opinion, residential trips should be part of every student’s curriculum in Scotland. The centre should be booked every week of the year, they really are that fantastic. We have already booked our place for next year and will look forward to returning to the newly refurbished Ardentinny site.”

For more information on all the courses and services available with ‘Actual Reality’ please visit www.actualrealitycentres.com/

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