A new programme where students can learn about the history of Bermuda was launched yesterday at the Bermuda National Trust (BNT) headquarters.

The BNT AXIS Educational Centre was started by a $600,000 multi-year pledge from Axis Capital Holdings Ltd.

For six years the Trust has been travelling to schools and other organisations to educates students about Bermuda

President of Bermuda National Trust, Bill Holmes said: "In a nut shell, the funds have been used for an enhanced educational programme, including highly qualified staff and a purpose built class room.

"The Trust has taken great pride in the success that the educational programmes has enjoyed since it began more that six years ago but realised in 2007 that further growth was impossible due to lack of class room and the inability to hire additional staff."

He said that the Trust came to the realisation that the education programme was an asset in carrying the Trust forward into the 21 century, so Axis Holding decided to sponsor the renovations of the old building linking the modern amenities with the older traditions and infrastructure.

"The programme will, by the third year, see some 2,400 students and 240 teachers benefit from and be enriched by, the experience of learning about their history, culture and environment within the unique setting of the Trust's nature reserves and historic buildings," he said.

Axis CEO, John Charman said: "Axis is both proud and delighted to partner with the Bermuda National Trust and Government in this wonderful initiative.

"We will reach out to every generation of schoolchildren to enrich their lives and give them a greater appreciation of this unique Island, particularly its history and its natural surroundings. We are honoured to celebrate the opening of the AXIS Educational Centre.

"This important and stimulating program will be directed by highly trained educators."

Mr. Holmes said: "Everyone at the Trust is very excited to use the new facility for Christmas Camps to be held here next week and to share the facility with educators and students in the New year."