MSP praises local landmarks

South Scotland MSP Brian Whittle has been singing the praises of some of Ayrshire’s landmarks during a Members Debate in the Scottish Parliament.

The Conservative MSP led the debate on how heritage and environmental charities support outdoor learning.

Among the organisations coming in for praise during the debate were Culzean Castle & Country Park, run by the National Trust for Scotland, Dumfries House near Cumnock and the RSPB.

The former Olympic athlete used the debate to highlight the opportunities these organisations were offering to school pupils in and around Ayrshire.

He told the chamber of new learning experiences being presented, from exploring the natural world to growing their own fruit and vegetables and seeing practical applications of what they learn in the classroom.

He said: “Outdoor learning represents a massive opportunity for schools to broaden the horizons of pupils.

“Having been able to visit places like Culzean Castle and Dumfries House in recent months, I was pleased to have the chance to highlight the fantastic work they’re doing in this area to my colleagues in the Scottish Parliament.”

A motion put forward by Mr Whittle, which urged government to look at the opportunities presented by outdoor learning and ensure it remains an important part of the school curriculum, was supported by MSPs from a number of different political parties.