What am I doing?

I am giving up chocolate for lent again this year after I raised £365 for Newry Gateway Club in 2016. This year I want to raise some money for the 2017 Rathore School Summer Scheme.

What is Rathore School?

For those who don't know, Rathore School is a controlled co-educational school for pupils with severe learning difficulties situated next to the Carnagat area in Newry City. The school has a wide age range of pupils from 3-19 years-old within the Newry and Down region. The school vision aspires to nurture and develop a community of life-long learners. One of my brothers attended the school and another currently does.

What are the aims of the summer scheme?

The aim of Rathore's summer scheme is to provide opportunities for the children and young people aged 5-19 years who have severe or profound multiple learning difficulties/disabilities, to enjoy experiences within a safe and familiar environment which are similar to those enjoyed by their peer groups in mainstream schools.

Why does the summer scheme need donations?

The Education Authority provides funding for staffing and transport but only a small amount for activities. This means that to provide an effective programme Rathore depends heavily on your generous donations.

How can I keep up with what's going on at Rathore and the school's summer scheme?

Donors and supporters can follow Rathore School in the local newspapers - the Newry Democrat, Newry Reporter, the Cross Examiner, the Mourne Observer and the Rathfriland Outlook - and by visiting http://www.rathoreschool.schooljotter2.com/ .

Who will the money be donated to and when?

The money will be donated to Rathore School, Newry after the Easter holidays and will be spent by the school authorities in order to fund this year's summer scheme.