12.01.10

Manx National Heritage Launch ACE!

The Arts, Culture and Education scheme (ACE) provides free admission to Manx National Heritage sites and has been developed through close working between Manx National Heritage and the Isle of Man Department of Education, along with sponsorship funding received from 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 are to be congratulated on their forward-looking approach to 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 said: "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". 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 throughout 2010 including at the award-winning House of Manannan from January 2010.

From 2nd April 2010, ACE cardholders will also receive free entry at the seasonal Story of Mann heritage sites including at the Great Laxey Wheel, the Grove Museum of Victorian Life in Ramsey, Castle Rushen, the Nautical Museum, the Old Grammar School and The Old House of Keys in Castletown, the National Folk Museum at Cregneash, Rushen Abbey and Peel Castle.

Further savings will be available at all heritage shops including the Manx Museum Heritage Shop. Other benefits include free admission to all children age under 5 years and a concessionary rate introduced for all students in full time education on production of a valid student identification card.

The ACE scheme is open to every child and young person aged 5 to 18 years enrolled in full time education on the Isle of Man including state schools, private schools and home learners. All those aged 12 and over will receive the further benefit of being able to visit without an adult, enabling the Island's young adults to freely experience and enjoy the Island's heritage sites.

Simon Hull, Managing Director of Conister Bank who provided valuable funding to support the launch of the scheme said: "At Conister Bank we believe in the importance of engaging with your heritage. Since 1935, as the Isle of Man's only independent bank, we have cultivated our heritage in the community by forming strong relationships with families who trust our dependability and stability. Like our namesake, Conister Rock, we too have become a proud part of the Island's heritage. In celebration of our 75th anniversary, we are keen to give something back to the community for their unwavering loyalty and support over the years. We are therefore delighted to facilitate this excellent scheme which will encourage our local children to get out, get involved and connect with the Isle of Man's fascinating history, culture and traditions."