Plockton School of Traditional Music will continue to train Scottish musicians of the future through a partnership with the West Highland College (WHC) UHI.

An additional £200,000 a year from 2012/13 to 2014/15 from the Scottish Government will enable the College to link up with the National Centre for Excellence, opening up its facilities to WHC students.

The move will see further education courses in traditional music and other events delivered at the school, with other uses also under consideration.

Speaking during a visit to the school, Education Secretary Michael Russell said:

“The reaction to the proposed closure of the school from pupils, former pupils, musicians, politicians and members of the public clearly demonstrated the widespread support for the unique facilities at Plockton.

“This new partnership between the school and West Highland College will open up the school to older music students and allow them to take advantage of the quality teaching and outstanding legacy that Plockton has provided.

“Investment from the Scottish Government will make this partnership a reality and assist the bodies concerned in funding the school in these times of financial constraint over the coming years.

“Scotland has a fine history of producing talented professionals across a whole range of the arts and traditional music is no exception. As one of our National Centres for Excellence, it is already funded by grant via the Highland Council and this will continue.

“Today’s announcement does not affect that relationship, nor those responsibilities, but opens up a range of new possibilities and broadens the base of support for this important facility.”

The funding is dependent on acceptance of a grant by West Highland College UHI with appropriate assurances. The funding will be made available for three years (2012-13 to 2014-15).

The Scottish Government’s innovative Engage for Education site allows users to read blogs from Ministers, post comments and get involved in workshops on issues relating to education.

Source: Scottish Government