ADVENTUROUS schoolkids will soon be reaching new heights, thanks to bosses at Glasgow Airport.

A lump sum award of £23,398 from the airport’s FlightPath Fund will allow a total of 64 pupils from eight secondary schools to take part in an outdoor personal development programme.

This will include rock climbing at Neilston Quarry, activity days at either Pollok Country Park or West Kilbride beach, a three-day residential stay at a bothy based in the Borders and one-to-one sessions to help alleviate any issues faced by those children taking part.

Schools with pupils from the most deprived neighbourhoods will be offered the opportunity to take part in the programme, ensuring those most in need will benefit.

George McConnachie, of personal development programme Venture Scotland, said: “This funding allows us to specifically target pupils from the most vulnerable backgrounds and have an impact which is potentially life-changing for those involved.

“Our programme is aimed at those dealing with a range of complex issues who struggle in a classroom setting or are at risk of disengaging completely from formal education.

“Thanks to Glasgow Airport’s FlightPath Fund, those young people now have the chance to gain an accredited qualification whilst developing their skills and self-confidence.”

Archie Hunter, chair of the FlightPath Fund, added: “This award to Venture Scotland tops off what has been an absolutely tremendous year for the FlightPath Fund and the many local charities and community groups it has supported in 2018.”

The Glasgow Airport FlightPath Fund was established in 2010 to support community groups, charitable organisations and innovative projects with positive outcomes in three areas – education, employment and the environment.

It has since awarded £1.5million to more than 550 community groups and charities.