Camphill School Aberdeen brought nostalgia to the city with its first-ever large fundraising event in aid of the charity’s sensory playpark project, raising £40,520.
The Back to School Quiz, held last night Thursday 27 February at Union Kirk, saw 30 teams compete to be top of the class and impress the ‘headmaster’, Alex Fleming.
The event included dinner, a quiz, a disco, a raffle, and a silent auction. Prizes included artwork made by the young people at Camphill School Aberdeen, a box for Peter Kay at the P&J Live (donated by WM Donald) and a unique signed Angus the Bull, Dons strip (donated by Amplus Energy).
Alex Fleming, school headmaster and quiz host
The event helped raise the final funds to complete the playpark, which will be the first of its kind in Aberdeen, will be located on the charity’s Camphill Estate near Milltimber and will be free at the point of access. The facility, which is expected to begin construction early spring, will be open to Camphill School Aberdeen students, ASN bases, other North-east charities, and any young people and their families who would benefit from relaxed play sessions.
Peter Davidson, head of fundraising for Camphill Estates, said: “It was fantastic to see so many local businesses show up in support of our playpark. We were overwhelmed by the interest in our quiz night and the enthusiasm and generosity shown throughout the event.
“Providing children and young people with sensory needs with a safe, dedicated space to exercise their right to play ensures that they don’t miss out on the vital learning and development opportunities that can come from outdoor play.”
Camphill School Aberdeen's Back to School Quiz at Union Kirk
Designed in collaboration with young people and endorsed by the National Autistic Society, the sensory playpark will serve the 35,000 children with additional support needs (ASN) in Aberdeen and Aberdeenshire. Sensory play is vital for childhood development and is any play that engages senses such as sound, touch, smell, balance, and movement.
A survey conducted among parents at Camphill School Aberdeen revealed that 78% feel unable to access public parks due to sensory sensitivities, behavioural challenges, or social judgment. The new facility aims to offer these children a safe, supportive environment where they can enjoy the physical and emotional benefits of outdoor play.
The playpark is the third and final part of phase one of the charity’s wider Building Futures, Transforming Lives capital appeal. The appeal, which aims to raise £10 million over 10 years, will help the charity open its doors to more young people in need by creating new residential homes, improving existing facilities, and ensuring the young people have an enhanced environment in which they can thrive.
The sold-out event was made possible due to the support of principal sponsors Amplus Energy, CNR International, WM Donald, FG Burnett and CHAP Group.
Due to open to the public in late summer, the playpark will require bookings via an online system to reduce crowding. Find out more about the project: www.camphillschools.org.uk/support-us#play-park