Schools across Helensburgh and Lomond are teaming up with the Children’s University Scotland to try and encourage young people to take part in exciting learning activities outside school hours.

The scheme provides children with a ‘passport’ which enables them to collect credits and gain certificates while they learn.

Argyll and Bute Council’s policy lead for education, Councillor Yvonne McNeilly, said: “We want to create the right foundations to ensure that our young people have the best start in life and taking part in the Children’s University Scotland helps to do that.

“I would urge organisations in Helensburgh and Lomond to sign up to this great scheme.”

The Helensburgh Heroes Centre on Sinclair Street in Helensburgh is the area’s first designated Children’s University Scotland learning destination.

Phil Worms, of the Helensburgh Heroes Charity, said: ‘We’re delighted to be recognised as one of the Children’s University Scotland’s learning destinations and the first in Helensburgh.

“The charity was founded on the belief that everyone is special and has the capability to be a ‘hero’ and we are really looking forward to reading about the personal nominations that the young passport holders put forward.

“We want the centre to engage, to educate and above all inspire and what better way to do this than be part of the Children’s University network.”

If you are interested in learning more about the Children’s University, or would like to sign up as a learning destination, please contact Emer Flett at Argyll and Bute Council on 01436 658921 or email emer.flett@argyll-bute.gov.uk