Gretna Primary School is one of the largest primary schools in Dumfries and Galloway. Its current school role is 308.
Future projections for the school show that additional capacity is required. The report presented to councillors outlines the plans for a temporary classroom to be built. If approved the additional classroom unit would consist of two class bases which would increase the school capacity to 368.
Councillors will be asked at the Education and Learning committee on 13 May 2021 to approve plans for a new temporary classroom.
Numbers will be reviewed continually to see if there is stability in future years allowing for the temporary accommodation to be changed to a permanent solution.
The situation at Gretna has enabled officers to review the process on accommodating any future pupil growth within the education system. Included in the paper presented to Councillors will be the trigger points for intervention.
Councillor Jeff Leaver, chair of the Education and Learning committee, said: “We know from some of our major projects over recent years such as St. Joseph’s College in Dumfries that the temporary accommodation was of high quality and provided a stimulating learning environment. I am pleased that Councillors will be presented with options that will address the situation at Gretna and will provide a good solution for both our staff and pupils”.
Councillor Ros Surtees, vice-chair, said: “We know that young people thrive in environments that encourage them to be creative and learn. I’m hoping councillors will approve this temporary classroom to accommodate all our young people in Gretna”.
