Education at Hopetoun

Hopetoun is an excellent educational resource for lifelong learning. A range of activity based workshops, activities and events is suitable for a wide variety of groups from nursery, primary and secondary schools to students of further education, special interest groups and the general public.

The Education Team works directly with schools groups on curriculum based themes relating to the House, and together with the Ranger Service, offers activities in the Grounds. Hopetoun provides a research facility and academic resource to PhD and tertiary students as well as to professionals for Continuing Professional Development. Group visits from educational and historical organisations interested in the heritage and conservation of Hopetoun House are encouraged. The Hopetoun Archive, probably the most complete family archive in Britain, is accessible by groups and individuals by prior arrangement for detailed studies.

Sandford Award Winner 2010

Hopetoun House has been recognised for educational excellence and has been awarded a Sandford Award from the Heritage Education Trust for its education programme.

The citation reads:
Primary school pupils visiting Hopetoun House will have in a single day a whole series of enjoyable active learning experiences that fully support Curriculum for Excellence.  They will leave this magnificent stately home with a deeper understanding of past lifestyles, particularly in relation to the Victorian era, that are very different to their own.   The infectious enthusiasm of the education team combines with their skill in engaging even the most reluctant of learners to ensure that the visit ranks amongst the most memorable.

"Dear Education Centre,

Just wanted to pass on a huge thank you to Mrs Ward and Peter, especially for making our trip to Hopetoun House so memorable.  The children loved their day and from the very first were engaged in the most well organised and worthwhile activities.  I was so impressed with the standard of presentation and the so capable teaching and leadership skills.  I have been on many outings and this has rated as one of the best!!  The children were full of it!! And today we loved looking at our photos.  Highlights were certainly "the deer" and beleive it or not "the Potty" and the "rabbit poo!". Well done to you and thank you again for such a worthwhile and happy experience.    Bellsquarry Primary School"

The Education Team welcomes children's groups of all ages from nursery to tertiary education. Visits can be tailor-made; for younger children these can include games, costume and drama whilst for older groups they could focus on fine art, 18th century furniture, architecture or gardens. Our education room and other facilities can be booked for study visits by all sizes of groups, with ample free coach and car parking.

Find out about The Young Hopetoun Club which provides a varied programme of fun activities and crafts on offer, including nature trails and pond dipping in the grounds together with craft sessions and drama workshops held within the House itself.

For further information email: education@hopetoun.co.uk