- Now in it’s third year P.A.L.S! Summer scheme has helped support over 100 young people make the transition from primary to secondary school
- A collaboration between three youth arts organisations based at the Drill Hall
- P.A.L.S! returns to the Out of the Blue Drill Hall from Monday 24th to Friday 28th July
Monday 24th to Friday 28th July sees the third P.A.L.S (Play and Learn Stuff!) Summer Scheme return to the Out of the Blue Drill Hall!
Started initially as a response to the pandemic, the scheme was designed to help young people get back outdoors, off their screens and enjoying new experiences within a safe and supportive environment.
Specifically targetting children aged 11 – 13 in the Leith area, the free scheme provides a circuit breaker from technology, a chance to re-engage with others and participate in the arts.
Since its inception, the P.A.L.S Summer Scheme has helped over 100 children learn new skills and gain confidence prior to starting secondary school.
First established in 2021, it’s a collaboration between three youth arts organisations, all based in the Out of the Blue Drill Hall in Leith: Out of the Blueprint, Strange Town Youth Theatre and All or Nothing.
As in previous years, the three partner organisations will deliver a free activity based on their specialist art form.
- Drawing and comic-making with Out of the Blueprint
- Drama games and performance with Strange Town Youth Theatre
- Aerial and circus skills with All or Nothing
The scheme has evolved since its inception and following feedback from parents and children. After taking part in the scheme many parents recognised increased confidence and resilience in their child in preparation for moving to high school.
| Feedback from children (2021 & 2022) “I learnt how to use the printer. I learnt how to be a better actor. I learnt how to be more creative and not hesitate to try new things! Thank you!” “Was I nervous about coming along? Obviously! The three new things I learnt this week was how to get on a hoop, how to make new friends and how to get up high by spinning in a cocoon!” “The best bit was doing things I haven’t done before” |
| Feedback from parents (2021 & 2022) “We were so impressed by the whole experience (name) had. Thank you!” “My husband and I were delighted (name) attended all week because she loved the activities and managed to chat to people she didn’t know. The experience helped increase (her) confidence and independence.” “Please do something similar! It really built her confidence that she tried something new.” |
Project Manager, Johnny Gailey, says: “We initially started the scheme as a way to support young folk who had missed out on transition activities that helped them make the step up to big school due to Covid.
“We’re very proud that it’s now part of our annual summer offer of activities for children in the area. Whilst the pandemic is over, this generation continues to feel the long tail of Covid and it’s effects and we believe activities that support the development of their social skills and confidence will stand them in good stead as they progress to high school.”
The P.A.L.S! Summer Scheme takes place at the Drill Hall from Monday 24th to Friday 28th July. Further details can be found on the Out of the Blue website.