Edinburgh Rugby and Scottish Building Society score big off the pitch in 2023/24

This collaborative spirit has not only benefitted young minds through innovative educational initiatives but has also championed local causes and inclusivity throughout 2023/24.

Tackling maths and local causes

The innovative ‘Tackle Maths’ programme, a joint initiative by the partners, has seen over 500 young people across Scotland benefit from practical maths learning that uses rugby as a relatable backdrop.

“Scottish Building Society is passionate about teaching children the value of maths and financial planning early on,” said Paul Denton, Chief Executive Officer at Scottish Building Society.

“We’re thrilled that Tackle Maths is empowering young minds and hopefully inspiring a future generation of financially astute fans.

“It’s not just about equations on a page; it’s about demonstrating the practical application of maths skills in a way that resonates with young people.”

Students taking on Tackle Maths at Hive Stadium.

The partnership’s commitment extends to supporting local causes.

The Scottish Building Society Player of the Month initiative has now raised over £12,000 throughout three seasons, with beneficiaries this year including Cash for Kids, Ronald McDonald House Charity, Edinburgh Children’s Hospital Charity, Corstorphine Cougars, Dumfries Saints and My Name’5 Doddie Foundation, each receiving a £500 donation.

Wes Goosen with his Scottish Building Society Player of the Month award.

Building bridges through rugby

Edinburgh Rugby’s Managing Director, Douglas Struth, emphasised the importance of inclusivity: “At Edinburgh Rugby, we’re at our heart a community club. Initiatives like the pre-match Scottish Building Society Inclusive Festivals, which saw over 200 participants this year, are a fantastic example of how rugby can bring people together.

“It’s incredibly rewarding to see the joy on the faces of participants, and it reinforces our commitment to making rugby a sport for everyone.”

The commitment to inclusivity goes beyond inclusive festivals. Nearly 100 participants enjoyed a successful Scottish Building Society walking touch festival, while 200 young players from boys and girls teams across Scotland entered the exciting ‘Win a training session with Pierre Schoeman’ competition, which saw the Scotland internationalist host Huntly RFC, Falkirk RFC, Howe of Fife Harlequins and Boroughmuir Banshees at Hive Stadium.

Players at a Scottish Building Society inclusive festival.

A winning partnership

This season’s community engagement efforts by Edinburgh Rugby and Scottish Building Society combine innovative educational programmes, fundraising initiatives, and inclusive events making a real difference in the lives of people across Scotland.

“This season has been a fantastic display of teamwork within our community initiatives,” continued Struth.

“We’re incredibly proud of the positive impact we’ve made alongside Scottish Building Society, and we look forward to building on this success in the seasons to come.”

Denton added: “At Scottish Building Society, we believe in building strong communities.

“Our partnership with Edinburgh Rugby allows us to go beyond the traditional sponsorship model and directly connect with fans and young people.

“It’s been incredibly rewarding to see the positive impact on financial literacy and inclusivity, and we look forward to even more success together in the seasons to come.”

Further points on the partnership

• Over 500 young people now completed the Tackle Maths educational initiative
• Over £12,000 raised for local causes and charities as part of Player of the Month initiative
• Cash for Kids, RMHC, Edinburgh Children’s Hospital Charity, Corstorphine Cougars, Dumfries Saints and My Name’5 Doddie all donated to this season – £3,000 in total donated in 2023/24 through Player of the Month awards
• Two pre-match inclusive festivals delivered successfully with over 200 participants
• 200 kids from boys and girls teams involved in ‘Win a training session with Pierre Schoeman’ competition
• Walking touch festival with nearly 100 participants successfully delivered