Secondary Schools in the Scottish Highlands

[Sussex1972]

We currently live in south of england. Two children year 7 and 9 currently. Both in private schools. We are having to move to Inverness and I am struggling to know how to judge schools there. The Scottish gov website is not that transparent and when I research state schools it would seem that some schools are suffering from such under investment that the roofs leak, the buildings are cold and the results are mixed. There are no natural private schools I feel are a fit so how do I try and find out more and inform myself and ensure the children go to the right school. The lockdown is of course not helping with this as no schools are open!!

[Malmontar]

I think your closest private is gordonstoun. Maybe weekly boarding would be possible? Otherwise it's about 40miles from Inverness for day and they do English curriculum. From family in Dundee I hear that kids just go to their catchment school in Scotland. It's a much more simple process than in England so I guess the only thing to worry about is where you live.

[Ursaminor]

Gordonstoun runs a daily school bus service, but it doesn't go as far north as Inverness (which would make it far too long a schools day anyway!). I think it extends as far as Nairn. And they can do flexible boarding too.

[SabrinaThwaite]

For state schools in Scotland, children go to the school which covers the catchment area where you live, so you’ll need to consider that when renting / buying. You can apply to an out of zone school but you’re not guaranteed a place. You’ll probably need an address before you can apply for places.

highland.maps.arcgis.com/apps/webappviewer/index.html?id=531a30ee33564231866ff94e96607f26

Be aware that school admissions based on date of birth run differently as well - in Scotland it’s based on 1st March to 28th/29th Feb, although many Jan and Feb born children are deferred for a year.

Fortrose Academy looks like it’s the highest ranked state school in the immediate area, followed by Millburn Academy and Culloden Academy.

www.dailyrecord.co.uk/news/scottish-news/scotlands-schools-ranked-best-worst-21981461.amp

My old neighbours’ children boarded at Gordonstoun and loved it - both very sporty children.

I’d try posting on the Scotsnet board as well.

[Sussex1972]

Thanks all