Highland Council plans to move all Plockton pupils from the Primary to the High School
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Highland Council’s school building woes continue to mount as Plockton Primary becomes the latest victim in the declining education estate with pupils are set to start taking lessons in the local high school instead, writes Scott Maclennan.
It emerged online that pupils would be moved to Plockton High School but Highland Council refused to confirm specifics, saying there was a problem only with the games and dining hall.
The council referred to “alternative” arrangements which it appears will involve primary pupils are taking their lunch at the high school about a kilometre along the road. It’s understood lessons will also be affected.
The council was asked specifically whether parts of Plockton Primary have been condemned and whether most of the pupils will now be taught in the High School.
A spokeswoman said: “A standalone building as part of Plockton Primary School which is used as the dining area/games hall is currently closed due to the identification of a timber issue within the structure.
“Further investigation is due to take place with structural engineers into the affected hall’s condition. The main school building and nursery is safe to remain open.
“Alternative arrangements are being made to minimise disruption as much as possible.
“The continuation of learning and teaching for all children and young people is of paramount importance to the Highland Council.”
It is understood Plockton Primary pupils will be moved to the High School next term – likely referring to after the October holidays, though details are to be confirmed.
Local councillor Biz Campbell told the Ross-shire that the move was in fact sensible as the building is too old to be a good place to teach children.
She said: “The children will move up to the High School for health and safety reasons next term and I think they will be better off there, it is a better place for them to learn.”
“The environment will be better for teaching the children at the High School.”
It is understood that the local authority has written to the parent council to confirm the changes which would effectively incorporate physically the primary and High School in one campus where the pupils already have access to facilities.
It is already considered a “3-18 Campus” with the primary offering education in both English and Gaelic medium and a Gaelic medium nursery
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