Community learning in Scotland highlights local education efforts

The Herald spotlights informal and community learning across Scotland, citing projects such as Sunny Govan Radio, the Inverclyde Shed and the Reimaging Art project as examples of grassroots education and social support.

Community and informal learning in Scotland is providing education and social support outside traditional institutions. The Herald argues that this form of learning is often overlooked even as public debate focuses on schools, colleges and universities. Reported pressures include concerns about school buildings in Forres, Lenzie and the Isle of Mull, teacher shortages and a university funding crisis. Against that backdrop, community-led projects are described as accessible, grassroots responses that reach people who find formal settings daunting. Examples of community projects: - Sunny Govan Radio is approaching 25 years of grassroots education and social support, teaching radio and podcasting skills and helping with employability and social isolation. - The Inverclyde Shed in Greenock has transformed a disused industrial building into an award-winning community asset where people can "meet, make, grow and share." - The Reimaging Art project, run by the National Autistic Society Scotland, offers opportunities for self-expression to build confidence, skills and wellbeing. - The Herald has also reported on a long-running underdog music school in Paisley that has supported young people over two decades. - Past coverage includes a pop-up boat building project that used traditional skills and tools. - The paper has featured a pro-wrestling gym that provides an unconventional educational, physical and creative outlet. Summary: These community initiatives are reported to change lives by offering low-key, often free learning and social connection to people of all ages. The Herald highlights them as accessible alternatives for those who find formal education settings daunting. The paper says it will make a point of telling more of these stories in 2026.