admin@kaimes.edin.sch.uk 0131 664 8241
admin@kaimes.edin.sch.uk 0131 664 8241

KSSA CHARITY

The Kaimes Special School Association (KSSA) was set up in 1996, receiving recognition as a charity in April 1997. The KSSA aims to provide, or assist in the provision of, educational and recreational activities and facilities to young people with autism (ASD) and other learning disabilities living in Edinburgh and the surrounding area that are not normally provided by the Local Education Authority. Activities include adventurous activities, including residential trips, and cultural activities that aim to provide young people with an opportunity to belong and contribute to a group/community and achieve their goals, in an environment in which social communication skills, independence, physical and mental health, confidence and self-esteem can improve. 

 

Kaimes Special School Association, SC026330 

Registered charity from 07 April 1997 

Spring 2026 update 

This spring has seen the completion of the playground redevelopment at Kaimes School. Thanks to generous grants from Wooden Spoon, SPIFOX, Cash for Kids, Inspiring Scotland, Dreams Come True, the Cameron Toll Community Fund and lots of fundraising efforts from supporters the work carried out has transformed the outdoor space. It has been wonderful to see children and young people enjoying the play equipment together and to observe the positive impact on physical and mental health as the revamped space encourages increased physical activity and facilitates increased social interaction between young people. The playground is now a place of joy and friendships. This redevelopment follows the Pod transformation last year, funded by The Robertson Trust, which continues to be well used as a wellbeing space by young people. 

Funding from the KSSA has supported some amazing residential breaks over the last 18 months. After a couple of snowless ski trips in 2024 and 2025, which resulted in groups from Woodlands School and Kaimes School trying out different adventurous activities during their weeks away, the Ski Club were delighted to ski on snow at The Lecht and The Cairngorm during the residential at Lagganlia Outdoor Centre this February. The KSSA continues to support weekly ski sessions at the Midlothian Snowsports Centre and are seeking new funding to support this initiative after generous funding from Children in Need came to an end. Away from the snow grants from The Roberston Trust, administered by Foundation Scotland, the Alpkit Foundation and John Watson’s Trust saw young people experience amazing trips to Northumberland, The Cairngorms, Aberfeldy and Pitlochry, The Pentland Hills and the Outer Hebrides. These experiences developed independence and confidence in young people, improved overall wellbeing, led to a huge range of skills being developed and created memories to last a lifetime.  

Children and young people at Kaimes School continue to have access to a free breakfast everyday due to funding secured by the KSSA from Magic Breakfast (supported by the Postcode Lottery) and Inspiring Scotland Bright Start. Breakfast Club not only provides a healthy, nutritious start to the day but provides an opportunity for young people to connect and socialise with one another in a nurturing environment.  

If you would be interested in supporting the KSSA, please contact admin@kaimes.edin.sch.uk