MSP to meet with parents over Invergowrie school proposals

Perthshire North MSP John Swinney has invited parents in Invergowrie to meet with him over concerns about proposed changes to the catchment area for Dundee’s Harris Academy.

The changes mean pupils from Invergowrie Primary School, which falls within the boundaries of Perth and Kinross Council and Mr Swinney’s constituency, will no longer be automatically offered a place at Harris Academy.

The school is situated two miles from Invergowrie but the proposed changes will see pupils instead offered a place at Perth Academy, more than 20 miles away.

Mr Swinney, who is the Scottish Government’s education secretary, said he is concerned the proposals will have a “negative impact” on pupils and families based in Invergowrie.

He said: “Historically, Invergowrie pupils have attended Harris Academy. This is a sensible arrangement that recognises the unique circumstances that Invergowrie pupils face regarding access to secondary education.

“As a result of this tradition, and the village’s geographical location, pupils from Invergowrie have formed close ties to Dundee and to Harris Academy specifically.

“I am concerned therefore that the proposed change to the catchment area will cause significant unrest and worry to parents and pupils alike.”

Mr Swinney warned the change would leave siblings attending different schools and pupils facing a 40-mile round trip. The MSP, who has invited parents to meet with him on January 27, said he had already discussed his concerns with Dundee City Council leader John Alexander.