What do I need to know about my child's residential

We understand how important it is to be prepared ahead of your child's residential with us.  We have covered the main topics below, if you still have questions or concerns after this then please contact your child's school in the first instance who will be able to help.

National Centre Inverclyde was reopened in 2017 following an £11m upgrade and rebuild of the facilities.  This means safety, security and inclusivity are at our heart.

What should my child bring?

Your child should arrive, dressed ready for participation in sport and physical activities and wear comfortable trainers.​

We encourage young people to come prepared for the week with:​

Clothing

  • Shorts & t-shirts (enough for the duration of their stay)​
  • Joggers and warm jumpers​
  • Hats, scarves and gloves (weather dependent)​
  • Change of clothes for evening activities​
  • Waterproof jacket​
  • Training shoes (1 pair minimum)​
  • Outdoor shoes/wellies​
  • Swim wear & towel (if swimming or watersports is included in your programme)​
  • Sleep wear​
  • Underwear & socks​

Toiletries

  • Tooth brush & toothpaste​
  • Shower gel & shampoo​
  • Hair products (non-essential)​
  • General toiletries​

Other items:

  • Backpack​
  • Water bottle​
  • Sunglasses​
  • Sun tan lotion​
  • Glasses/ Contact lenses (if applicable)​
  • Any medication (i.e. inhalers etc.)​
  • Money - the school can advise on their policy for this - all food etc is included in the stay.  We would advise, if the school allows, to bring change (for vending machines etc) as we are unable to provide it.

Your child’s school will have their own procedures regarding bringing mobile phones, tablets or any other electronic equipment. However, it would be advisable to leave these at home. sportscotland does not accept liability for the loss or damage of any belongings and advise parents to be mindful if allowing children to bring any items of value.

What will they do?

We offer a varied programme of activities from rugby and gymnastics to bush craft and orienteering.  No two days are the same.  Our team of experienced coaches put together an exciting programme of activities for each day and evening with something to suit everyone, even the less competitive or sporty children!  If you would like to look at a sample programme please click below.

Sample programme of activities

What will they eat?

Our chefs have created a school group menu specifically for younger people to ensure that what they are eating is balanced, varied but also accommodating for any fussy eaters.  You can see a sample food menu below.  We also cater for dietary requirements as per the school's instruction.

Sample menu

What if my child is worried about the residential?

Along with their teachers and friends all children will have the full support of our coaching team and all of our friendly staff here on site. We advise parents to reassure young people that they will have an amazing time.  We have been welcoming school groups for many years and they always have a fantastic experience and rest assured we look out for every group that attends.

Should you wish to arrange a walk round of the centre prior to your child's visit, this can be arranged. This should be organised via your child's school. We have also put together a short tour of our facility which you may wish to show your child if they have any concerns regarding their residential. 


 

Will my child have their own room?

Our accommodation consists of 60 twin bedrooms; each room with two single beds with the capability to sleep a maximum of two individuals. Your child will be allocated their room prior to their arrival by their teacher. This will ensure that young people are more likely to be paired up with their close peers.

On the occasion that schools are bringing an uneven number in their group two rooms will be brought together to ensure no young person is sleeping alone. This is achieved using an adjoining room.

Under no circumstances would a young person be allocated a room where they would be isolated from their group.

If you have any concerns, regarding who your child is to be roomed with, these should be directed to the school prior to their visit.

If you still have any concerns or questions please contact your child's school.

Schools and education
Date published: 22 March 2023
Date updated: 15 September 2023