The future of Buckie High School was discussed at the Education, Children’s and Leisure Services (ECLS) Committee last week, which raised further concerns about its condition.

Chief executive, Karen Greaves BEM, said: “We’re aware of concerns being shared online about the condition of Buckie High School and would like to reassure pupils, parents, carers, and staff that the school is safe and continues to provide a positive learning environment.

“We acknowledge that Buckie High is currently rated as ‘Condition C’ – which means the building needs investment. However, we’re keen to stress our assurance that the issues identified do not pose any health or safety risks for pupils or staff using the building day to day. These are all known issues that are either already being managed or will be addressed through planned future improvements.

“The Future Buckie High School project was developed to address the condition of the building and to deliver a modern, reliable and sustainable school. Buckie High has been included in the council’s capital investment plan for some time. However, following the setting of the Learning Estate programme’s capital budget, and the lack of external funding, a new school building is currently unaffordable due to wider financial pressures. The project has been carefully considered, discussed at length, and alternative options are being explored currently.

“In the meantime, the council will progress essential repairs and maintenance to ensure the building continues to meet required standards. We’re also investigating phased, affordable improvement options and preparing the project to move forward if external funding becomes available. As with all recent major school projects in Moray, support from the Scottish Government’s Learning Estate Investment Programme or a similar funding stream will be essential.”

Council leader, Councillor Kathleen Robertson, added: “We’re aware of recent posts and photographs circulating online about the condition of Buckie High School and understand that parents, carers, and members of the community may feel concerned and upset by what they are seeing and reading online.

“We would like to clarify that some of the images and reports being shared relate to damage caused by storms and adverse weather, which occurred in early 2024. These specific issues were addressed at the time and have since been resolved. While some current concerns have already been identified by both the council and the school, our maintenance teams are addressing them where appropriate. Any urgent matters are responded to as a priority. These challenges are being taken seriously and form part of the long-term improvement planning.

“Throughout this process, we want to express our sincere thanks to the entire Buckie High School community. Pupils, teaching and support staff, cleaners, and janitors’ teams continue to take care of the school and show real pride in their community. Their efforts are greatly appreciated and reflect the strength and spirit of the school.”

It’s requested that any current specific concerns be sent directly to learningestate@moray.gov.uk, so they can be logged and dealt with through the appropriate channels.

The community will be kept up-to-date and involved as work towards a long-term solution that ensures Buckie High continues to remain a safe, valued, and effective place of learning takes place.

 A public meeting is being arranged for the evening of 17 June 2025 and more details on this will be available soon.