Ayrshire schools' chance for £10,000 funding support

The funding by Cash for Kids will target schools that cater to children from disadvantaged backgrounds or those with additional needs.

Last year, the scheme granted a total of £26,241.35 to support five schools.

Participating schools are given fundraising tips and help from the Cash for Kids team and will be tasked with raising money over a period of time.

They retain 100 per cent of the money they raise plus a chance to receive additional funding.

All participating schools could receive an extra £5,000, £2,500 or £1,500 if they are in the top three schools who raise the most money.

Also, two special awards of £500 each will be presented for the best use of social media and the most creative fundraising idea.

Last year's winner was Annanhill Primary School in Kilmarnock.

Annanhill teacher Emma Johnstone said: "We were delighted to win the schools challenge last year.

"It really brought our school community together to raise funds not only for our school but our favourite charity, Cash for Kids.

"This year we raised funds for health and wellbeing resources and programmes for the school.

"This was to increase our children’s mental and physical wellbeing. We were able to buy calm caddies for every class which helps to regulate when children are finding things tough.

"We were also able to provide our most vulnerable children with breakfast every day for a year. We did family cooking projects, growing and gardening so we could cook the food."

She said the school will re-enter the challenge this year due to the significant impact it had on the children's wellbeing.

Funds raised will be put to various uses, including subsidising activities for pupils and helping with uniform costs for those who are struggling during the cost-of-living crisis.

Schools can also use the money to adapt facilities to help children and young people with additional needs meet their full potential.