ISLAND school children were given free admission to the Isle of Man's national heritage sites in February.
The Arts, Culture and Education scheme (ACE) provided free admission to Manx National Heritage sites and was developed through close working between Manx National Heritage and the Isle of Man Department of Education.
The scheme was sponsored by Conister Bank to mark the beginning of their 75th anniversary year.
Anne Craine MHK, Minister for Education said: "What a wonderful New Year's gift this is to the children and young people of the Isle of Man.
"Manx National Heritage is to be congratulated for encouraging our youth to take an interest in our unique heritage by offering them free admission to all their sites. There is no better way to learn about our heritage than to visit the sites and be able to immerse ourselves and our imagination in the troubles and triumphs of the past.
"I hope that this will encourage families to go together to enjoy the 'Manx experience' and touch the history that made us the proud nation that we are today."
Anthea Young, education services officer for Manx National Heritage commented: "The ACE scheme is a fabulous opportunity for all children and young people to engage in their heritage and develop their Manx identity for free. Self-directed learning at an early age not only helps children in school but also provides social learning opportunities outside of the classroom.
"We are absolutely thrilled to be able to offer the Island's children and young people this opportunity to engage with their Island's heritage and I would like to take this opportunity to thank all parties involved in developing the ACE scheme."
The ACE scheme is open to every child and young person aged between five and 18 who is enrolled in full time education on the Isle of Man including state schools, private schools, and home learners.
