Almond Valley MSP praises work of Livingston Polar Academy

The Polar Academy, now in its 11th year of operation is a charity set up in 2013 by Founder & Managing Director Craig Mathieson who has now earned a place as one of the Top 50 global influencers in newly formed ‘The Explorers Club 50’.

Almond Valley MSP Angela Constance visited the Polar Academy in Livingston to hear firsthand the incredible work the staff have achieved by transforming the lives of young people across Scotland who go on to inspire and motivate their peers.

The Polar Academy, now in its 11th year of operation is a charity set up in 2013 by Founder & Managing Director Craig Mathieson who has now earned a place as one of the Top 50 global influencers in newly formed ‘The Explorers Club 50’.

The Polar Academy work with 13–18-year-olds in Scottish schools and organisations. Each year, a rigorous selection process identifies a small group which undergoes intensive training for a polar expedition.

Dedicated staff work with a cohort of 30 young people who take part in a year-long rigorous regime of high-intensity strength and endurance training, tyre hauling, navigation, and camping, calumniating in a winter sledge hauling expedition in Arctic Greenland.

The extreme challenge allows young people to realise their full potential. By showing them what they are capable of.

Ms Constance said: “I have had an inspirational visit to The Polar Academy who are transforming the lives of young people across Scotland.

“The youngsters undergo a rigorous year long fitness and training programme preparing them for an epic adventure in the arctic.

“This is an intense programme that instils self-confidence and belief while developing important physical and mental skills.

“By pushing their boundaries, these students will realise they are capable of far more than they ever imagined.

“The amazing staff are clearly passionate and focused about helping young people find their voice and confidence.

“And with a newfound sense of purpose – The Polar Academy students feel empowered and able to design their own path in life who go on to inspire others. This is undoubtedly life changing for everyone who takes part.

“If you are interested in supporting The Polar Academy and would like to help transform the lives of these incredible kids, please contact Craig Mathieson at craig@thepolaracademy.org.”

The Polar Academy collaborates with prestigious institutions such as Oxford and Cambridge Universities and the Scott Polar Research Institute.

The charity also has a formal partnership with the Greenlandic Government to develop tailored versions of its program for Greenlandic children along with being recognised in the Scottish Government’s “Scotland’s Arctic Framework Policy.

Don't miss the latest news from the West Lothian Courier. Sign up to our free newsletter here.