A TOURIST attraction near Oswestry is offering free trips to all Shropshire schools.

The British Ironwork Centre is making the offer as part its School Partnership Programme, which aims to reach out to as many regional and national schools as possible to visit the site.

On Friday, March 8, Whittington CofE Primary School pupils visited and were presented with a certificate in recognition of being an Outdoor Activity and Educational Partner.

Ironworks spokesman Joanne Jones said: "We are incredibly grateful for this certification and will continue to work hard to ensure every regional school receives support in terms of outdoor education.

We believe that outdoor education and activities are exceptionally important when it comes to broadening minds and allowing children to freely, and safely, explore the outside world. Whittington school, among many other schools, have benefited from our partnership through various outings and visits to our centre where we aim to showcase and engage each child with something a little bit different. From craft workshops alongside our resident artisans, to exploring our famous Metal Safari Park, to participating in special activities that are updated every season, the Ironworks Centre is the ideal way to learn and grow.

"Throughout every visit, children will have the opportunity to explore our site, discover all the fantastic sculptures that we have on display, and learn a little something about the world around them. The activities here at our centre have been specially designed to encourage children to access and enjoy all that our grounds and facilities has to offer. We aim to provide activities that will educate and provide enjoyment for children from all backgrounds, genders, abilities, and ages, and there is certainly no shortage of things to do here!"

While trips and outings are free, donations to Hope House Children’s Hospice are gratefully received.