The Bingo Association donated its latest Sunshine Coach to North Ridge High School in Manchester, enhancing opportunities for SEND students through educational trips and fostering independence and social skills.

The Bingo Association has donated a Variety Sunshine Coach to North Ridge High School in Manchester, marking the 36th coach funded by the Association in six years as part of its £2m contribution to Variety – the Children’s Charity. The coach was presented by Miles Baron, CEO of The Bingo Association, at a special event attended by representatives from Club 3000 Bingo in Middleton, Zoe Greenwood and Donna Kunyo, and the Lord Mayor of Manchester, Councillor Paul Andrews.

North Ridge High School, a specialist SEND school for students from Year 7 to 6th Form, emphasises fostering individuality and success through tailored teaching methods. The new Sunshine Coach will support the school’s growing student body by enabling trips to Sea Life, local parks, museums, work experience venues, and swimming facilities. These experiences are essential for developing independence, social skills, and community integration.

Mrs Johnson, head of North Ridge, expressed gratitude: “We are so grateful to The Bingo Association for sponsoring the bus. This extra bus will make a significant difference in the lives of so many young people, fostering confidence, independence, and social communication skills.”

Lyn Staunton, Variety’s development director, added: “We are thrilled to present a Sunshine Coach to North Ridge High School and extend our thanks to The Bingo Association for their remarkable generosity.”

Baron celebrated the collective effort: “Raising £2m for Variety over the past six years is a phenomenal milestone, and seeing the direct impact on thousands of children’s lives makes it all the more worthwhile.”