Dumfriesshire MP David Mundell and Galloway and West Dumfries MSP Alex Fergusson are set to meet Dumfries and Galloway Council Director of Education Colin Grant to discuss the proposal for a ‘super’ school in Dumfries. The pair are keen to ensure that the public consultation that is now set to take place will be as wide-ranging and transparent as possible.
Mr Mundell believes that schools from outside Dumfries town itself, including those in Annandale and Eskdale and Wallace Hall Academy, should be invited to join the debate. Whilst recognising the merits of the proposal they also believe that the Education Department must provide detailed information on how the plans will affect existing schools in the Dumfries area, both in terms of their future budgets and staffing provisions.
Mr Mundell commented: “It is right that education is a place for new ideas and imaginative solutions. However it is essential that it is also a place for discussion and I am keen to ensure everyone is given the opportunity to express their views.
“We have called for a meeting with the Director of Education to make sure this consultation takes place in an informed environment with all the facts available to parents, teachers and the wider community.”
Mr Fergusson added: “This is an exciting and ground breaking proposal with much to commend it but, as with any major changes, many people have expressed concerns about their future roles within the new structure. There is a possible impact on many schools outwith Dumfries itself, such as Dalbeattie and Castle Douglas, and it is therefore essential that the consultation is seen to be open and honest. The purpose of our meeting with the Director of Education is to ensure that that is the case.”