Lewis lights up first Christmas for school
Special Olympian pupil honoured at switch-on
08.12.2017 Riverbrae School pupils have got into the festive spirit and marked the achievements of their very own Special Olympian at their Christmas tree lights switch-on.
MSP Tom Arthur had the honour of switching on the lights and presenting a special award to 13-year-old Lewis Nicholson for his achievements in sailing at the Special Olympics National Summer Games, in Sheffield, in August.
Headteacher Catherine Gilius said deputy head Mick Kelly selected Lewis for the games after noticing his talent for sailing.
Ms Gilius said: “Riverbrae prides itself on supporting our unique and talented students, so it has been wonderful to see Lewis having this opportunity.
“We’re extremely proud of Lewis and the example he’s set for our students to never let anything hold you back from achieving your dreams.
“His success is truly reflective of our school’s ethos to transform the learning opportunities available to children with additional support needs.”
The community spirit that has boosted Riverbrae since it opened in August was evident at the celebrations, with parents and the community police supporting the school.
Ms Gilius thanked Community PC Gordon Aitken for organising the festive Christmas tree, courtesy of a donation from B&Q.
She also thanked parents for volunteering their time to make the festivities a success by wrapping Christmas presents and securing raffle donations.
“I can’t thank everyone enough for coming together to make Riverbrae’s first Christmas a special and memorable one,” she said.
Riverbrae School was joint-funded by Renfrewshire Council and the Scottish Futures Trust and was designed to transform the learning opportunities available to children with additional support needs.