Building Confidence, One Smile At A Time

At St Crispin’s School in south Edinburgh, children with complex needs have found a place to belong and the chance to play, learn, and grow.

The St Crispin’s After-School Club is a wonderful service for children and young people aged 5 to 18 with additional support needs, many of whom are excluded from other play and leisure opportunities. Run by a dedicated team, the club provides a safe, one to one nurturing and secure environment where young people can relax, enjoy activities, and connect with their peers.

Alannah Campbell Skilling, Manager at St Crispin’s After-School Club, explained: “Our goals are simple but powerful and that’s to give every child the opportunity to have fun, build friendships, and express themselves. For many, changes in routine, sensory challenges, or difficulty communicating can make it hard to join other after-school activities. Our high staff-to-child ratio, experienced team, and flexible, child-centred approach make it possible for our young people to take part safely and confidently.

“The club requires lots of resources, so the support from the Cameron Toll Community Fund helps us provide materials for arts and crafts activities, as well as daily snacks for the young people during our sensory club.”

Claire Jefcoate, Centre Manager at Cameron Toll, added: “St Crispin’s School is a very special place, and the After-School Club gives their young people opportunities to take part in activities they might not otherwise experience. When we visited, we saw first-hand the friendly care they give to improve sensory and craft environments and how much everyone enjoyed being there.”

For more information on St Crispin’s After School Club visit: https://stcrispinsedin.com/after-school-club/ or on Facebook at: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100086908796703