This initiative was launched in November 2016 to commemorate ACHA’s 10 years as a housing association with a 10 year bequest of £10,000 per year to support initiatives in Argyll schools brought forward by pupils.

The first awards have gone to Tiree High School, Tarbert Academy, Port Ellen and Bowmore Primaries on Islay, Rockfield Primary, Oban, Iona Primary on Iona, Kirn Primary, Cowal, Lochdonhead Primary on Mull and Achaleven Primary in Connel.

The awards have ranged from £963 to £1,700 and have covered a range of initiatives including developing digital skills, textile printing and fabricating, developing a nature trail, recycling initiatives, a child’s play facility, and instruments and music development resources for the performing arts.

Alastair MacGregor, ACHA’s chief executive, said: “I am delighted that the first year of the 10 10 10 Initiative has brought us projects that can now go forward with two secondary schools and seven primary schools benefiting. The Association wanted our 10th anniversary to have a legacy. The young people of Argyll and Bute are our future and this funding supported by the environment of our schools will help their development on a variety of fronts.”

Ann Marie Knowles, Argyll and Bute Council’s Executive Director of Community Services, added: “I fully welcome the 10 10 10 programme. It provides increased opportunities for our children and young people to participate in a range of learning experiences and I look forward to our continued positive partnership with ACHA.”

The 10 10 10 legacy will run for 10 years with £10,000 made available per year to support grass roots school initiatives in Argyll and Bute.