Our ‘Meet the Team’ series aims to highlight the exceptional staff and volunteers who work hard to make Camphill School Aberdeen the wonderful place it is. Next up in our ‘Meet the Team’ series is Fiona Stuart, who works as Education Administrator for Camphill School Aberdeen in the schoolhouse on Camphill Estate.

How long have you worked at Camphill School Aberdeen?

This is my 20^th year of working at Camphill School Aberdeen.

What brought you to Camphill School Aberdeen?

I first joined Camphill School Aberdeen when I was looking for a term-time role in education while my sons were at school. My background was in secretarial roles, so the opportunity seemed perfect.

What does your role at Camphill School Aberdeen consist of?

My role at Camphill School Aberdeen has changed a lot over the years and I now have a full-time position. The overarching purpose of my role is to support Helen Wiley, Head of Education, and the teachers within the schoolhouse with any administration tasks.

I also act as an invigilator for pupils taking National 5’s and higher examinations at Camphill School Aberdeen.

Are there any key highlights that stand out for you during your time at Camphill School Aberdeen?

I have so many highlights of the last two decades at Camphill School Aberdeen. I enjoy the end-of-term festivals where students present what they’ve been working on during the term. Seeing their accomplishments being recognised and celebrated is really special.

Christmas at Camphill School Aberdeen is also always a highlight. The young people put a lot of time and effort into rehearsing their nativity and carolling – it’s great to see it all come together every year.

I also feel very privileged and just love being able to get out of the office for a couple of hours weekly to go ice skating with one of the classes. I was a keen figure skater when I was younger and really enjoy helping the pupils with their UK Learn to Skate Programme grades.

A further highlight for me is when pupils pop their heads round my door and come for a chat. It’s great to build relationships with the young people and to know that my office is a safe and comfortable environment for them to visit.

How much difference will our planned sensory, inclusive playground make to children, young people and the wider community when it opens?

I can see from my office window how much the children enjoy being outside and exploring the environment, both in their playtime and in the wonderful creative lessons the teachers prepare for them. Having an enhanced environment and dedicated playground to support the sensory needs of all young people across the wider community, and giving them a safe place to explore, learn and play, will make a fantastic difference to them.

Many of the children and young people need and enjoy time outside in a peaceful environment where they have a chance to self-regulate and to take part in learning that requires movement and different sensory experiences.

We have had a fantastic donation from the UK Government Levelling Up Fund, supported by Aberdeen City Council, but we still need to raise funds to turn our vision into a reality. Please get in touch with us if you think you can help.

When complete, how much difference will the Building Futures, Transforming Lives capital appeal campaign make to children, young people and their families at Camphill School Aberdeen?

I think the biggest difference the Building Futures, Transforming Lives campaign will make is propelling Camphill School Aberdeen into the public eye. The campaign is a great opportunity for us to highlight the amazing work we do for local children and young people with complex additional support needs.