PEEBLES High School is banging the hammer down on poverty and has promised that all students will have the same opportunities no matter what their household income.

Growing poverty, which affects more than one in four children in the UK today, leaves low income families struggling to pay for extra-curricular activities and impacts on pupils' experiences at school.

More schools throughout the nation are offering their pupils adventures of a lifetime, but they often come with a hefty price tag, which many families living in poverty simply can’t cough up the cash for. The inevitable result is that these children miss out.

This is something Peebles High aims to wipe out and together staff and parents are breaking down the barriers of social division. But they need the help of the Peeblesshire community to do this, and by digging deep and supporting their fundraising venture, no child will ever be left waving off their peers again.

Next Friday (October 4) Peebles High School opens its doors in support of the 'Opportunity Pot' funds.

These funds ensure every student in the school has access to opportunities where money can be a barrier to their inclusion.

A silent online promise auction is live now on the school website and there is a raffle with a top prize of £500 donated by Glenrath Farms.

This all leads to a grand auction and musical evening including the school’s renowned Ceilidh and Jazz bands and up and coming Young Futures Orchestra.

Compered by Scott Noble and the auctioneer team of Campbell Wilson and Keith Belleville, it promises to be a highly entertaining evening.

Headteacher Campbell Wilson told the Peeblesshire News: “Since returning to work after my illness and as part of our school values I wanted more than ever that all students enjoy the opportunities on offer here at Peebles High.

“There is an opportunity to bid on some incredible offers donated by our community, parents and staff. We extend a warm welcome to bring our whole community together by joining us at the school on October 4, it should be a great night. Thank you to the Parent Council and our school staff for their great work in bringing this idea to life."

Tickets are £5 available from the school office or Whities on the High Street. Doors open 6:30pm.

There is still time to donate a promise or raffle prize. Contact the school Parent Council email address: phspc@outlook.com