Blackford welcomes news of Broadford Primary funding
Best possible Christmas present for parents and children
Ross, Skye and Lochaber MP Ian Blackford has warmly welcomed news that Broadford Primary School on Skye has been prioritised for Scottish Government funding.
The primary school will be included in phase two of the Scottish Government’s Learning Estate capital investment programme for new schools.
The move follows years of hard work and determination by parents and councillors, who were concerned about the deteriorating state of the 91-pupil school, which opened in 1975 and provides both English and Gaelic medium teaching.
‘I am absolutely thrilled at the news that staff and children at Broadford Primary School will now have a suitable school premises to look forward to going into each day,’ said the SNP Westminster Leader.
‘Anyone who has visited the school knows that changes were needed in order to provide a safe and productive environment for the children to learn in.
‘It’s the best possible Christmas present for the children, parents and everyone else who have worked hard to secure this result. Congratulations to all involved.’
Education Secretary John Swinney announced that Scottish Government funding, alongside local authority contributions to phase two of the Learning Estate Investment Programme, which will enable almost £800 million of investment across 18 local authorities, with Nairn Academy the only other school in Highland to be included. The programme will deliver digitally enabled, low-carbon schools and campuses, designed to be inclusive and welcoming places that meet the needs of the whole community. The investment will also boost the construction industry and help economic stimulus with creation of jobs.
Mr Swinney said: ‘I am determined that our pupils have access to high-quality, up-todate facilities that parents, staff and children can be proud of.
‘This next phase builds on our commitment and proven track record in replacing schools in the poorest condition so that more children or young people can be educated in high quality buildings and ensure equity of provision.
‘Many of the projects will include wider community facilities and integration as part of the new school build or refurbishment. These facilities are so much more than just a school where children are educated, they are the centre piece of communities with links to the wider learning estate such as further education facilities and community libraries.’
He added: ‘Scotland’s construction industry has worked incredibly hard to deal with the many challenges presented by the Covid pandemic. This funding will help the sector, sustaining many jobs and providing a welcome boost to communities across the country.’