A TEACHER from Rhu Primary School has been awarded professional recognition in Outdoor Learning by the General Teaching Council for Scotland (GTCS).

Maria Dye took part in the Teaching in Nature project run by Scottish Natural Heritage (SNH), in partnership with Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park (LLTNP).

The project partners teachers with local outdoor experts and Maria worked with staff at Balmaha and Inchailloch Island to learn about the national park. A number of visits were then arranged with pupils.

Argyll and Bute Council’s head of education, Anne Paterson, said: “I would like to congratulate Maria on achieving this professional recognition.

"Outdoor learning is a key feature of all schools in Argyll and Bute, and it is clear that it has a number of benefits.

“The outdoor environment has massive potential for learning and lies at the heart of the Curriculum for Excellence.

"Being outdoors develops positive feelings and memories around school, it develops skills for life and creates a positive, can-do attitude amongst children.

“This is a wonderful thing for Rhu Primary School and I wish the pupils continued success with their outdoor learning.”