Community benefits funding delivers educational resources to Highland schools

2nd July 2025

Highland Council has provided 12 ‘Talking Tub' resources for use in primary schools across the Highlands, in partnership with Union Technical who deliver community benefits as part of the Energy Efficient Scotland: Area Based Scheme programme.

Chair of Highland Council's Education Committee, Councillor John Finlayson, said: "This is a fantastic initiative being rolled out across Highland primary schools which brings innovation and inspiration to early years children. Talking Tubs are educational resources designed to be borrowed by early years providers to enhance learning around a particular topic or theme and these boxes focus on construction and green energy.

"The goal is to help children begin developing the foundational skills and curiosity needed for future careers in energy and construction—sectors that are vital to the sustainability and growth of the Highlands. By using the Talking Tubs as a playful learning tool, educators can introduce children to a broader spectrum of jobs and skills beyond the traditional roles they may already see in their local areas. This initiative not only supports early learning and development but also strengthens community ties by highlighting local industries and the exciting possibilities they hold for the next generation."

Each tub is thoughtfully curated with a variety of engaging materials including wooden construction toys, Lego sets, house building bricks, engineering and construction children’s books, puzzles, hard hats and hi-vis vests, all aimed at encouraging children to explore real-world themes through imaginative play and providing awareness for future careers.

The Energy Efficient Scotland: Area Based Scheme (EES:ABS) programme is a Scottish Government programme and offers eligible Highland residents grant funding for energy efficiency measures including external wall insulation, cavity wall insulation, loft insulation, air source heat pump and solar panels with battery storage, which can result in significant savings on household energy bills.

Managed locally by Highland Council, the scheme is currently delivered by Union Technical and has funded upgrades for thousands of homes across the Highlands using Government grants and other support.