Coulhill Primary School in Alness introduces 'buddy bus stop' bench courtesy of local business support
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PUPILS at an Easter Ross primary school have a new gathering point thanks to the big-hearted response of local businesses to an appeal.
It’s hoped that the special bench feature now in place at the school will play a part helping pupils connect with each other and improve mental wellbeing.
The pupil council at Coulhill Primary School in Alness came up with the idea for a “buddy bus stop” that would be placed in the playground.
They then set about writing letters reaching out to local companies to share their vision and seek support.
Students were delighted to be rewarded for their efforts with the welcome addition of the bench, which is now in pride of place in their playground.
It offers a new place to talk to others, make friends and seek support if needed.
The bench was kindly donated by award-winning WoodblocX and Home and Hardware donated brushes, paints and sandpaper so the children could decorate it.
Head teacher Ross Matheson voiced delight over the feature.
He said: “The Coulhill Pupil Council would like to extend a huge thank you to WoodblocX
and Home and Hardware for supporting this initiative and helping us make school life so much better for the pupils of our school.
“The bench has had a very positive impact on pupil wellbeing, particularly in helping them deal with the chaos that we have all faced during the Covid pandemic. It allows them a place to talk to others, seek friendship and company, share any worries they may have and it’s a place where they can seek support if they need it.
“Additional benefits have been that it has opened up leadership opportunities for our P7 pupils who run the bus stop and has helped rebuild the community within the school after a two-year period where they’ve been in their bubbles and cut off from each other.”
