Move to ensure schools have other options
Education chiefs are working flat out to ensure no children will lose out on outdoor education as a result of the closure of Kilbowie.
And council leader Jim Logue this week said he’s “very confident”there will be other options available to pupils elsewhere in Scotland.
The Wishaw Press contacted Councillor Logue to highlight that an online petition against the closure of Kilbowie had gained more than 10,000 supporters, and to flag up concerns from parents that P7 children could be deprived of a hugely important experience for their development and education.
“I understand why parents are angry as it’s a once-in-a-lifetime visit to Kilbowie, and the pupils thoroughly enjoyed these trips,”said the council leader.
“But we are faced with catastrophic cuts. This decision is financially driven, we are upfront about that.
“It’s an issue because of the ongoing financial situation, which was not helped by the budget last week.
“No provision has been made with the block grant from central government for inflation or the uplift in council staff wages.”
Kilbowie outdoor centre is to shut next year after North Lanarkshire councillors narrowly voted for its closure at a tense meeting.
The Labour group’s motion to close the facility in Oban, which provides residential outdoor education experiences for primary seven pupils, was passed by just one vote.
There has been talk of building an alternative facility at Strathclyde Park, however parents are worried that pupils could miss out on outdoor trips while waiting on any developments.
The council leader responded:“There are discussions ongoing at present with head teachers and senior education staff about all potential options.
“There are a number of providers throughout Scotland that can facilitate outdoor education.
“There are only three or four authorities in the country that own their facilities. We inherited Kilbowie after it was transferred to North Lanarkshire Council in 1995.”
Asked if he can give a firm assurance that children won’t lose out on outdoor education trips, the council leader said:“Assurances can be given that there are ongoing discussions with head teachers and we are looking at all options. These discussions are progressing.
“I’m very confident that after these talks, in conjunction school committees and head teachers, there will be an overview of facilities available to us that other authorities currently use.”