On the 26th May 1934 a pioneering new educational scheme was launched in Cambusbarron. The first venture of its kind in Scotland, a new school hostel and camp was established by the Educational Institute of Scotland on Polmaise Estate. It was opened by Secretary of the Scottish Education Department Mr W. W. McKechnie.
The hostel was designed to offer children in cities a chance to come and experience the countryside. The camp could hold 96 pupils and 16 teachers. There were two designated camp officers and a qualified cook present on site at all times.
