All children and young people have the potential to thrive.

Our work is built on robust evidence about what children and young people need to be their best selves. These big ideas underpin everything we do, shaping the way we support adults, influence and create lasting change.

Chris Watt Photography_238
Picture Copyright Chris Watt 
Tel -  07887 554 193
info@chriswatt.com
www.chriswatt.com
Twitter: @chriswattphoto
Instagram: chriswattphotography

Adults are far more influential than they realise

Children and young people do what we do, not what we say. Supporting adults - whether it’s parents, teachers, coaches, or community leaders - creates the strongest foundation for change.

Research from Harvard’s Graduate School of Education and the Center on the Developing Child shows the actions of parents, teachers, coaches, and community leaders send powerful signals that shape values, behaviours, and well-being.

Row edge-slant Shape Decorative svg added to top
Row edge-slant Shape Decorative svg added to bottom

It takes a village

The culture, structures, and systems surrounding children and young people shape their opportunities and outcomes. We focus on strategic change and building partnerships that help young people learn and develop.

UNICEF Early Childhood Development Framework (2017) say that children’s development depends not only on parents, but also on the wider environment - including families, schools, services, and communities, that surround and support them.

Picture Copyright Chris Watt 
Tel -  07887 554 193
info@chriswatt.com
www.chriswatt.com
Twitter: @chriswattphoto
Instagram: chriswattphotography
paints

Struggle builds skills

Skills are built through active practice and reflection, and struggle is a key part of helping our brains to learn something new.

Studies from Harvard and UNICEF show that when young people face challenges and reflect on them, their brains form stronger connections - proving that struggle is an important part of learning

Row triangle Shape Decorative svg added to top

Prevention is better than cure

Tackling challenges early leads to better outcomes and better value. Research from LSE (London School of Economics) shows that every £1 invested earlier saves over £5 later.

That’s why we focus on proactive approaches that create lasting, long-term change.

Chris Watt Photography_537
Row edge-slant Shape Decorative svg added to bottom

What the big ideas mean for us

We connect innovative global thinking with evidence-based approaches to improve the lives of children and young people in Scotland.

Whether we’re creating learning programmes, helping children and young people be heard, convening strategic discussions or producing action-focused reports, our work is about spotlighting what works - and turning insight into change.

Developing programmes

Working together with communities and leaders to build a lasting, positive environment for young people to learn and grow.

Row edge-slant Shape Decorative svg added to top

Supporting individuals

Building confidence and ambition in children and young people by working with community programmes and partnerships to empower the adults supporting them.