Learners in S2 from Speyside High School joined forces with Speyside Trust for a community ‘Day of Action’ at  Badaguish Outdoor Centre as part of the Cairngorms 2030 programme.  

Having completed their Global Goals course, S2 learners took part in a range of ‘Day of Action’ practical activities with partner organisations across the National Park. These activities are aimed at giving back to the community whilst supporting UN Sustainable Development Goals.  

In May, learners from Speyside High School worked alongside members of Speyside Trust’s team to plant native tree saplings at Badaguish Outdoor Centre near Aviemore. The activity supported Speyside Trust’s focus on improving the organisation’s sustainability and environmental impact. 

One of the S2 learners involved from Speyside High, said: “I have really enjoyed today, planting trees, measuring them and learning more about them and would like to do more volunteering in nature.” 

Based at Badaguish, Speyside Trust is a charitable organisation whose ethos is ‘access for all’, providing affordable and accessible accommodation and facilities for people who need additional support. 

Alex Walshe, Events and Bookings Coordinator at Speyside Trust, said: “Speyside Trust at Badaguish was delighted to welcome learners from Speyside High School for a tree-planting day. The pupils' enthusiasm and teamwork were fantastic, and we are very grateful that they chose to spend their Day of Action supporting Badaguish and our commitment to strengthening our environmental resilience and impact.  

“Together we planted native trees that will enrich our habitats and support our site and the wider Cairngorms National Park. It was a brilliant day outdoors, doing what we love - connecting with nature and bringing our "access for all" ethos to life. It was great to see young people enjoying our beautiful site and we hope they'll come back to see their trees grow. A big thank you for all your achievements.” 

Funding for transport was provided through The UK National Parks Foundation’s AMEX partnership fund, while trees were donated by a range of supporters, including Rivertrees Nursery near Carrbridge. The climate learning and education project is part of the Cairngorms 2030 programme, supported by The National Lottery Heritage Fund.