29 April 2021

Councillors support recommendation to permanently close Strachan School

Aberdeenshire councillors were informed of the outcome of a consultation on the proposed closure of Strachan School this week and agreed with officers’ recommendation to permanently close the school and reassign its catchment area.

A new catchment area will create a dual zone between Banchory Primary and Finzean School. This concludes a lengthy process and statutory consultation in accordance with the Schools (Consultation) (Scotland) Act 2010.  

Prior to the meeting of Full Council, the future of the school had been discussed in detail by both the local authority’s Education and Children’s Services Committee and Marr Area Committee. Last considered by Education and Children’s Services Committee in January 2021, councillors recognised that two thirds of the local population are supportive of the move and that engagement with the local community has been a focus, including capturing the views of young people.

Director of Education and Children’s Services Laurence Findlay commented: “The dual zone which has been agreed for Strachan School means families will be able to choose which school they attend and free school transport will be provided for both. This came from a suggestion at one of our public meetings and highlights our commitment to working closely with local communities where difficult decisions have to be made.”

Aberdeenshire Council must now wait for the decision to be confirmed by Scottish Ministers before implementing the closure. The public can request a review of the decision by Ministers by either emailing Schoolclosure@scotland.gov.uk or by writing to The Scottish Government, School Infrastructure Unit, 2A (South), Victoria Quay, Edinburgh, EH6 6QQ. Any representations need to be submitted by 19 May 2021.