Stevenson Welcomes Heritage Access Boost For Schools

Stewart Stevenson MSP has welcomed the extension of a travel subsidy scheme that will allow Scottish heritage sites to be more accessible for schools in Scotland.

At a time when finances at all levels are under pressure the local Banff & Buchan MSP is pleased that the scheme will help schools to continue to provide exciting and motivational education experiences for pupils.

School visits to all Historic Scotland properties and three iconic National Trust for Scotland sites Culloden, Bannockburn and the Robert Burns’ Birthplace Museum are covered by the travel scheme, which is funded by the Scottish Government and administered by Historic Scotland.

Commenting, Stewart Stevenson said:

"I have often met with students and teachers on visits to the Scottish Parliament by schools in Banff & Buchan and I know how prohibitive the costs of such trips can be for them. This is, therefore, an extremely welcome extension of the scheme that will allow local schools to apply for assistance with travel costs in visiting Scottish heritage sites.

"Our history is extremely important in understanding the current social and political landscape, so anything that encourages young people to visit and learn about Scotland can only be a good thing.

"Here in Banff & Buchan there are important historical buildings that will be accessible using this scheme.

"The Historic Scotland and National Trust for Scotland sites included in this scheme will no doubt prove to be an attractive choice for many teachers also looking to improve pupils’ knowledge of Scottish history.

"I would encourage any school in Banff & Buchan interested in visiting any of the sites to apply for the subsidy by visiting the Historic Scotland or NTS websites."