Festive Crafts Raise Funds for Charities

Students from the Life and Work Skills programme and the Pathways to College and Employment courses at UHI North, West and Hebrides' Thurso campus demonstrated creativity and community spirit, raising a combined total of £388 for local charities and student trips through their recent festive enterprise events.

As part of a class project, the Life and Work Skills students researched seals and discovered the vital work of the Caithness Seal Rehab and Release charity. Inspired by a guest talk and visit from volunteer Garance Warburton, they chose to raise funds for the charity.

The students showcased their entrepreneurial skills by sourcing raffle prizes, creating Christmas cards and decorations to sell on campus and were delighted to raise an impressive £258, with £120 donated to the Caithness charity.

Meanwhile, students from the Pathways to College and Employment course held their annual Enterprise Day, raising £130 selling handmade bracelets and hosting a raffle. The students chose to donate £65 to the MFR Cash for Kids Mission Christmas appeal. After learning about the campaign’s struggle to fulfil gift applications this year, the students were motivated to help. The remaining funds will support a class outing in the new year.

Morag McKie, Interim Curriculum Manager for Education, Early Years and Supported Learning, praised both groups, saying, “The enterprise projects undertaken by our Life and Work Skills and Pathways to College and Employment students are wonderful examples of how they develop practical skills, creativity, and a sense of community responsibility. We are incredibly proud of their efforts and the positive impact they’ve made on local causes.”

Explore over 100 courses available across our campuses and centres in the North and West Highlands, Skye, and Outer Hebrides starting in January 2025. Whether you're a recent school leaver, looking to return to work or seeking career advancement, we have the perfect course for you. Visit January Starts or contact info.nwh@uhi.ac.uk for more information.