A project that aims to help youngsters reach their education goals by using the power of football has been hailed a success.
PeterDeen was launched last August as a venture between Aberdeen and Peterhead football clubs and Aberdeenshire Council.
It is aimed at third year pupils who are struggling to get to grips with the traditional school curriculum, and combines core subjects like English and maths with football coaching sessions.
The two-year pilot signed up 18 teenagers from Peterhead Academy, and has already resulted in a 50% increase in class attendance rates in just six months.
The group spend three days a week doing sporting activities like football and sailing and spend the rest of the time in the classroom.
Peterhead Academy head teacher Shona Sellers said she has noticed a huge difference since the initiative launched.
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She said: “They’re more engaged and keen on what they are learning. That’s a huge improvement on where we were this time last year.
“They were chosen because they were struggling to fit with the curriculum.
“As far as the next step and employability, they have moved on a good deal when at the end of second year they had no idea what they were going to do.
“They are now beginning to see the bigger picture.
“We are having conversations with them about what they are going to do next year and most of them want to continue with the Peterdeen programme.”
Councillor Gillian Owen, chairwoman of the authority’s education committee, said: “We’re really pleased to recognise the achievements of those young people who are participating in the PeterDeen programme at the moment.
“It is heartening to hear stories of progression, hard work and patience, and we hope the programme will continue for many years to come.”
The pupils were signed up after being selected by Peterhead Academy following discussions with their families and an assessment process.
Aberdeen FC Community Trust, Peterhead FC and Peterhead-based Score Group are all involved in the venture.
