PARENTS could have the opportunity to apply for a £150 grant scheme to allow their children to apply for school activities outwith the campus.

The money is expected to come from a £3000 grant scheme from South Ayrshire Council but may be means tested in order to tackle the 'status quo'.

Speaking about the potential grant Cllr Hugh Hunter said: "I am not at all comfortable with this process and how it could deny young people opportunities."

Cllr Ann Galbraith added: "I want to know whose bright idea it was to have means tested benefits for £150. I think it is mean spirited and unnecessary."

Members discussed whether youngsters from well off families needed to be able to apply for the benefit. 

They heard that some children cannot afford to go on a school trip to Dolphin House where as others attend Saturday school at Glasgow's RCS.

Brian McGinnley said: "If we continue to make these services available to everyone we will not help those who are affected by the status quo."

Cllr Brian Connelly agreed: "This is a touchy subject but I agree with Mr Mr McGinnley. I do not think people who can afford it should be able to apply for grants. I think it should be means tested."

But Cllr Hywell Davies disagreed: "Some of these projects are ludicrously expensive. One young lady, who was from a working class background, went to the RCS. If you took this grant away she would not have been able to go."

Cllr Bill Grant added: "Mr McGinley was a child who needed help. [getting out of poverty]. There is not one person who does not want to close the attainment gap. I would like to see children in this situation get help.

"I was one of these children too but I was not talented."

The discussion was put on hold and the outcome will be decided at the next leadership panel.