Schoolchildren will see more of next year’s Island of Culture celebrations thanks to a donation from a private company.
SES Satellite Leasing Ltd has presented a cheque for £6,600 to Tim Crookall MHK, Minister for Education and Children.
The gift, made at the company’s office in Circular Road, Douglas, will enable all 38 Manx state schools to enjoy a bus trip to an event during the year-long cultural celebrations planned by the Isle of Man Arts Council.
Mr Crookall said that schools had to factor in the cost of hiring transportation when planning trips and this could be prohibitive.
‘This generous support from SES Satellite Leasing Ltd will mean that in addition to all the events and activities schools are planning within their own buildings, they can take pupils to see a concert, an exhibition, a play or similar – ensuring they don’t miss out on the many exciting events that will be staged during 2014,’ he said.
SES Satellite Leasing Ltd supports education in a number of areas, sending speakers into schools and supporting science-based competitions and challenges.
Jim Hughes, managing director of SES Satellite Leasing Ltd, said: ‘SES is an innovative international organisation and, as such, education is important to our continued success. The Isle of Man is a place with a rich history and cultural heritage and the Island of Culture 2014 will allow schools better access to this heritage.’