Thanks to close co-operation between Manx National Heritage, Isle of Man Department of Education and Conister Bank, over 12,500 schoolchildren across the Isle of Man have now received their 'ACE' free admission cards to the Manx National Heritage sites.
The Arts, Culture and Education scheme (ACE) provides free admission to Manx National Heritage sites for children and young people aged 18 and under in full time education on the Isle of Man.
Among the first to receive their cards were the children of the Island’s smallest school at Bride, who also received a small gift bag presented by Anthea Young, Education Services Officer for Manx National Heritage.
Mrs Udy, Headteacher of Andreas and Bride Schools, said, "The Isle of Man is a fabulous place to live, particularly for and with children. The ACE cards present a wonderful learning opportunity for all Manx school children to become familiar with the cultural heritage of the Isle of Man and to be able to appreciate the changes that have occurred through time to make our life as it is today.
"We really feel that the ACE cards will enable families to afford to take their children to the many heritage sites and to enjoy the experiences and facilities together. On behalf of all children, I would like to thank Manx National Heritage and Conister Bank for their generosity. I am sure the cards will be well used."
All Isle of Man school children and young people in full time education on the Isle of Man presenting their ACE card will receive free admission to all sites throughout 2010.
Anthea Young said, "We have already begun to notice young visitors beginning to use their ACE cards at the House of Manannan and we hope that many new visitors will use their ACE cards at all Manx National Heritage sites in the coming year."
The ACE scheme was developed by Manx National Heritage in conjunction with the Isle of Man Department of Education with support received from Conister Bank in celebration of their 75th anniversary year.
Simon Hull, Managing Director at Conister, Bank said, "We are delighted that this scheme has been so well received by the local schools. At Conister Bank, we are firmly committed to supporting our local community and we hope that this incentive will encourage our young people to visit our local heritage sites with even greater frequency."
To ensure that all Island school children benefit, anyone who has not yet received a card should contact their school directly. Home learners and students educated at private schools off Iisland should contact John Gill at the Isle of Man Department of Education on 685828.
Pictured: Children at Bride School receive their ACE cards, with (l-r) Simon Hull, Managing Director of Conister Bank; Anthea Young, Education Officer for Manx National Heritage; and Simon Ripton, Head of Sales and Marketing at Conister Bank.
