CNOOC International Donates £20,000 to Support Youth Wellbeing Programme in Aberdeen

A £20,000 donation from CNOOC International will support the delivery of All Life Chances’ new ‘Glow & Grow’ programme, a long-term wellbeing and personal development initiative for young people in Aberdeen’s priority neighbourhoods.

The funding will enable All Life Chances to work in partnership with schools and specialist outdoor learning provider Fireflies Nurture & Thrive to deliver structured, therapeutic nature-based sessions designed to build confidence, resilience, and emotional wellbeing among children transitioning from primary to secondary school.

The ‘Glow & Grow’ programme will support small groups of pupils from St Machar Academy, Northfield Academy, and selected feeder primary schools.  

Sessions began in the final term of the 2025/26 academic year and will continue throughout S1. 

Activities will take place initially in outdoor spaces in Aberdeen, such as Seaton Park, before progressing to a dedicated outdoor learning site in Methlick. Pupils will participate in activities such as woodland skills, den building, fire craft, mindfulness, and reflective practice, all delivered by qualified therapeutic outdoor learning professionals.

Lara Munro, All Life Chances’ Director of Operations, said: “This generous support from CNOOC International allows us to deliver a truly transformative programme for young people at a critical stage in their lives.  

“We know that the transition into secondary school can be incredibly challenging, particularly for those already facing disadvantage. Glow & Grow provides a safe, supportive environment where young people can build confidence, form positive relationships, and develop the resilience they need to thrive.”

Recent pilot work delivered by All Life Chances demonstrated positive early outcomes, including reduced anxiety, improved engagement, and increased school attendance for participating pupils.

A key aim of the project is to ensure young people have access to experiences and opportunities that they may otherwise be excluded from, helping to improve long-term educational engagement and future life chances.

Baoshan Lu, VP – Developments & Production Operations, CNOOC International, said: “CNOOC is proud to support All Life Chances in delivering this innovative programme. 

"Glow & Grow is a powerful example of much needed support that helps young people build confidence, resilience, and a positive sense of self at a critical transition point in their lives. We hope this initiative will make a meaningful and lasting difference to children and families in Aberdeen, helping to improve wellbeing, engagement with education, and opportunities for the future.”

Mrs Munro added that the partnership would have a lasting impact on local young people. She said: “We are extremely grateful to CNOOC International for investing in the future of young people, enabling them to build their own toolkit to help them navigate the challenges of growing up while gaining independence and essential life skills. 

"The young people we have worked with so far are motivated and enthusiastic, fully embracing the benefits of stepping out of their comfort zone. It’s heartwarming to see.”