*

Frequently Asked Questions

How do you ensure that my children will be safe during their visit?

SOEC has an impeccable safety record. All SOEC staff are trained to the highest standard and all employees must undergo an enhanced disclosure check with Disclosure Scotland (or overseas equivalent) before commencing work with us. For more details about our staff training programme see our staf section. ALL SOEC Centres are self-contained in large grounds in quiet, rural surroundings. All visitors to the Centres must make themselves known to SOEC staff and wear identity badges at all times.

back to top


Do you provide self-catering accommodation?

Broomlee is the only Centre that can presently accommodate small self-catering groups. Groups that have professional cooks with appropriate qualifications may be able to use Centres industrial kitchens.

back to top


What size of groups do the Centres take?

All SOEC Centres apart from Loaningdale have bed space for 240 people. Loaningdale Centre can accommodate 120. We are also happy to accommodate camping groups when numbers exceed our capacity.

back to top


What qualifications do SOEC staff have?

Please visit our Staff section to find out more about our staff training programme.

back to top


Can the Centres cater for special diets?

We do our best to accommodate all diets including vegetarian, vegan, and gluten free, but we do ask that you notify us in advance of your visit. We provide nutritious, tasty food at all Centres which uphold our healthy eating policy.

back to top


What will I need to bring with me when I visit the Centre?

It may help you to prepare for your visit by downloading our clothing and equipment list for week stays, or our clothing list for day visits from our Download Library.

back to top


How can I contact my child when they are away at camp?

We recommend that contact should be made through the school or group leader. We would also ask that children don't bring mobile phones with them - some of our groups have a strict policy about this. Some children do get homesick, especially if they are away from home for the first time, but this usually passes quickly as they beome immersed in the activities and make new friends. Getting a phone call from Mum and Dad can make a happy and settled child upset. All Centres have a pay phone if a call home is really necessary.

back to top


Will there be other groups at the Centre when I am there?

We never place different groups in the same dormitories. There may be other groups using the Centre at the same time as your visit but we strive to ensure that groups using the Centres at the same time are compatible.

back to top


Do I need to bring a sleeping bag?

No. All bed linen is provided and included in the price of your visit.

back to top


How much does a visit cost?

Please contact us and we will e-mail you our current price list, or we can provide you with a quote for a tailored programme.

back to top


Do you do discounts for charities?

We have 2 rates for groups. Corporate groups pay a higher tariff and all school and charity groups received a preferential rate. This is detailed on our Price List which is available on request.

back to top


Are dogs allowed on site?

Due to child protection issues we do not allow visitors to bring dogs, excluding guide dogs, on site.

back to top