Children in Need supporting science

Children in Need is funding Curiosity Club at Red Balloon to explore Science in extra-curricular clubs

Human vision, breakfast cereal and toothpaste are just some of the subjects that could be ‘under the microscope’ at Red Balloon, thanks to a grant of £63,624 from BBC Children in Need and the Wellcome Trust. The money will fund Curiosity Club, an after school club and holiday club for Red Balloon students. The donation will pay for the club for three years, and 60 children, aged 10-18, will be able to take part.

Red Balloon provides a therapeutic and educational programme for children who have excluded themselves from school because of bullying or some other trauma in their lives. Many also suffer from complex mental health issues, anxiety and long term health conditions such as Autism Spectrum Disorders.

Lena Milosevic MBE, Red Balloon’s Chief Executive, commented on the award, saying: “We are hugely grateful for this grant, which will really support disadvantaged children locally. Red Balloon’s unique recovery programme combines education and therapy with mentoring and community engagement for young people who can no longer attend school. The disadvantages they face are multiple and severe. Without the support that addresses their educational and emotional needs, it is likely that they will reach the age of 16 with no qualifications and exacerbated mental health issues, leaving them little chance of progressing to further education or gaining employment.

“Students flourish with Red Balloon, and we believe science-based activities provide the perfect outlet for them to counter these disadvantages.

“With Curiosity Club they will be able to build resilience by experiencing failure and success on an individual basis and by working within a group under the supportive supervision of our experienced teachers. We hope that Curiosity Club will enable them to increase their scientific knowledge while having fun along the way.

“Red Balloon relies on charitable donations, so we’d like to say a huge thank you to the Wellcome Trust and everyone who donated to BBC Children in Need. Together you are helping fuel young minds so our children can prepare for their futures and take their places in the adult world.”

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