ARRAN OUTDOORS FOR ALL
RESPOND TO
NAC BUDGET DECISION
We welcome North Ayrshire Council’s (NAC) decision last week not to close the Arran Outdoor Education Centre (AOEC). We extend our gratitude to Councillor Currie and our other elected representatives for their support in ensuring the council continues to back this invaluable educational establishment, widely recognised across the UK as one of the leading residential outdoor education centres. However, while the centre remains open, significant challenges remain. We share Councillor Currie’s concerns about staff morale and the difficulty of securing bookings due to prolonged uncertainty over the centre’s future. Stability and confidence in AOEC’s long-term viability are essential. and we look forward to being informed by Councillors and NAC Officials in the near future about their proposals to ensure a sustainable future for the centre and its provision of life-affirming residential outdoor education. Our campaign will continue until the centre is safeguarded, adequately staffed, and resourced. Without this, it will be extremely difficult to secure a sustainable future. Over the past six years, we have learnt that AOEC has consistently met every financial income target set by the council, often exceeding them by double-digit percentages. Yet, despite this success, the centre continues to face repeated budget cuts and threats of closure. These ongoing reductions threaten its ability to deliver high-quality outdoor education. It is time for an end to the cycle of cuts and yearly threats of closure. Alistair Hume MBE spokesperson for AOFA said: "We call on NAC to work closely with AOEC staff to ensure the centre is well-prepared for the potential passing of Liz Smith MSP’s Schools (Residential Outdoor Education) (Scotland) Bill. If enacted, this legislation will guarantee that all pupils in state and grant-aided schools have the opportunity to experience at least four nights and five days of residential outdoor education during their school career". Arran Outdoor Education Centre has played a vital role in shaping North Ayrshire young people’s lives for decades. It must be given the support and investment needed to continue doing so for generations to come.
Arran Outdoor Education Centre
threatened by closure ...
In February 2023 North Ayrshire Council (NAC)
had the foresight to make it affordable for all children within NAC areas many from deprived areas
to still have the chance to experience the outdoors.
The was only possible due to the Arran Outdoor Education Centre and it's staff.
... but once again it remains under threat of closure!
SINCE 1971
EDUCATING
INSPIRING
Why save AOEC?
1.
Outdoor Education is important to the well-being of our children.
4.
The benefits of Outdoor Education to health and well-being are well documented and should be a priority.
2.
“Studies have shown that the UK has among the lowest levels of well-being in the whole of Europe" Source - OECD PISA STUDY
5.
Outdoor Education educates young people about nature, biodiversity and the environment.
3.
Residential Outdoor Education is of particular benefit both to children and young adults.
Show your support...
1.
Write to NAC Chief Executive
Email Craig Hatton - Chief Executive of North Ayrshire Council with your views on why AOEC should be saved from future closure
“Young people’s learning experiences can be enhanced by maximising the potential of the outdoors. The Scottish Government is keen to see all our children and young people having positive learning experiences in a variety of settings.”
“The guidance makes it clear that the outdoor environment offers motivating, exciting, different, relevant and easily accessible activities from pre-school years through to college.”
A message from...
Keith Brown, MSP
WE BELIEVE OUTDOOR EDUCATION SHOULD BE A STATUTORY REQUIREMENT.
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Tell us about your experience at the Arran Outdoor Education Centre!
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#ArranOutdoorsForAll OR send to us and we will post it for you!
You can even post a picture of you holding a placard with your message.
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