This year, all S5 pupils have been taking part in the Youth Philanthropy Initiative (YPI) programme; which sees groups of pupils research and work with local charities in order to further their understanding of the issues facing many people in our community. On top of the research, each group is also competing to win an incredible £3000 to donate to their chosen charity.

Wednesday morning saw the Final of Knox Academy's Youth Philanthropy Initiative (YPI). The six groups who were successful in the Class Finals took to the stage in the Assembly Hall, in the presence of all S4 and S5 pupils, to present the case for their chosen charities.

The presentations were of an exceptionally high standard and the pupils were a credit to themselves and their charities. A wide variety of social issues were addressed, the profiles of many of our local charities have been raised dramatically.

Kindly, Councillor John McMillan, Diane Robertson from East Lothian Council and our very own Head Teacher agreed to take the time out of their busy schedules to come along and support our pupils as our judges for the day. After much deliberation it was judged that the charity to receive the cheque should be Beyond Boundaries East Lothian.  This charity offers participation in outdoor activities and adventure sports for people aged 16 and over with mental and physical disabilities in East Lothian.

Many congratulations to Chloe Forrest, Natalie Forrest, Iona Freckleton, Katy Irving and Hannah Green who did an incredible amount of work both researching and fundraising for Beyond Boundaries over recent months and were well deserved winners of the prize for their charity.

Congratulations also to all the finalists who competed for their charities all the judges were hugely impressed and moved by the care and passion demonstrated by all finalists! 

The other charities represented in the final were as follows:

• East Lothian Young Carers
• East Lothian Food Bank
• Recharge
• The Bridge Project
• Leuchie House

A Redford