The Education and Children's Services Committee of Aberdeenshire Council met on Thursday 27 August 2026 to discuss a range of important issues affecting local schools and children's services. Key decisions included the approval to commence phase 4 engagement for the learning estate strategy, the permanent closure of Kinneff School with its catchment area reassigned to Catterline School, and the merger of Fintry and King Edward Schools with King Edward School retained as the operational site. The committee also approved the Relationships, Learning and Behaviour Policy for Education Establishments and noted the findings of the Early Learning and Childcare Strategic Assessment.

Movement Towards a Sustainable Estate - Phase 3 Update

The committee received an update on Phase 3 of the Learning Estate Strategy, which has involved engagement with the Kemnay, Laurencekirk, and Peterhead clusters. Councillor Leanne McWhinnie asked about changes to re-engagement strategies based on lessons learned from previous phases and the actual impact of parental engagement on recommendations. Max Booth, presenting the report, explained that engagement has been positive, with parents and communities actively providing feedback. He assured members that while not all suggestions can be implemented, they are considered. Regarding capacity reductions, Booth stated there should be no difference to schools, teachers, or pupils, as capacities have been realigned to match spaces becoming available due to changing utilisation rates.

Lisa Watt raised concerns about the low number of survey responses for Phase 3 and asked about strategies for Phase 4 to increase parental and community engagement. Max Booth acknowledged the challenge and mentioned that information is distributed through schools, and online sessions are held for parent chairs. He stated they would explore other suggestions for communication. Councillor Tracey Smith inquired about the Laudenskirk Cluster and Lothar Muir School, Fethwick Cairn School, and other schools within her ward, asking how schools were decided for potential mergers and the expected timeline. Max Booth explained that queries and suggestions from the survey about merging schools in Laurencekirk led to the consideration of this possibility due to pupil population being below capacity. He confirmed that cluster head teachers were met with, and that Lothar Muir and Fethwick Cairn seemed a good fit, with children and staff already working together. He estimated that a merger would normally take around 18 months, but they would aim for a juncture at the start of a new academic year, potentially looking at 2028. Councillor Anne Ross asked about the financial savings proposed with the merger of these schools and if there was an overall target for Aberdeenshire. The Director of Education and Children's Services clarified that there are no savings targets placed against the learning estate, with the focus being on enhancing the educational experience and making best use of assets. Councillor Louise McAllister asked about rezoning and if there was an overarching overview of the shire in terms of zoning for primary academy feeders, feeder schools, and transport. Max Booth confirmed that rezoning is a focus, with initial surveys to parents of outlying schools from central towns regarding secondary capacities. He mentioned anomalies and dual zones, and that conversations have started regarding the Dice catchment over New Mearns and the borders of Aberdeen shire. He stated this would be a huge piece of work, potentially one proposal with many parts, or many proposals, and that the committee would be updated on progress.

The committee recommended to note and approve the officer's recommendations and work plan for Phase 3, and to agree for officers to commence Phase 4 engagement with the Fraserburgh, Portlethen and Stonehaven clusters. A further report on the outcome of Phase 4 will be presented in Autumn 2027.

Early Learning and Childcare (ELC): Strategic Assessment and Cluster Capacity and Utilisation Review

Anne-Marie Davies-McLeod presented the findings of the ELC Strategic Assessment and Cluster Capacity and Utilisation Review, highlighting significant challenges including demographic decline, increasing complexity of need, financial pressures, and a mismatch between capacity and demand. She stated that the current operating model would require adaptation to remain sustainable. The report does not propose changes to individual settings but establishes the strategic case for change and proposes a phased programme of detailed cluster assessments and stakeholder engagement. Future proposals will be developed through further analysis, engagement, and statutory processes before being presented to the committee.

Councillor Catherine Victor expressed understanding of the need to forecast demographic decline and assess ELC provision for sustainability but stressed the importance of not disregarding the needs of families and children, regardless of location. She emphasised the need to listen and consult with those most affected and to consider all factors, not just financial ones. Anne-Marie Davies-McLeod assured members that the survey tool being used aims to gather information on parents' and stakeholders' values and priorities for ELC. She acknowledged the importance of lifelong learning and the need to be honest with residents about challenges and trade-offs.

Councillor Louise McAllister was pleased to hear about the Pathfinder review running concurrently and the potential for selling places. She also welcomed references to rurality and the engagement with parents and communities, asking how the survey is being distributed to reach families who may not yet have children in school. Anne-Marie Davies-McLeod explained that surveys go out from schools, and online sessions are held for parent chairs. She mentioned they would look for other suggestions on how to do this and have conversations with headteachers about the best communication methods for their parent bodies. She also confirmed that the first detailed cluster assessment report for Phase 1 clusters is expected by early 2027.

Councillor Billy Bilsland welcomed the inclusion of the impact of poverty, particularly rural poverty, and asked for future papers to include mention of the crucial role of qualified early years teachers. Anne-Marie Davies-McLeod acknowledged this and stated they would look into it. Councillor Ann Bell expressed concern about the data on Fraserburgh regarding children in deprived communities and requested a conversation with officers. Anne-Marie Davies-McLeod recognised the data distribution in the primary sector and the nuances of rural poverty, offering to refer Councillor Bell to more expert colleagues. Councillor Anne Ross raised concerns about ensuring models do not favour urban over rural settings and asked about accounting for additional travel costs when assessing affordability and accessibility of alternative ELC provision. Anne-Marie Davies-McLeod acknowledged the impacts of any decisions and mentioned looking at sample clusters. She noted that travel distances were confined to localities in very remote rural communities, but remote rural areas showed more variation, with people travelling past their local ELC setting for various reasons. She emphasised that capacity alone does not translate to sustainable demand or income and that changes will be necessary, but managed with residents and communities. Councillor Jim Gifford questioned the agility of the system to cope with rapidly changing pupil numbers, to which Anne-Marie Davies-McLeod responded that the system is not agile enough and compromises will be necessary. She stressed the need to understand the drivers of change, particularly parental demand in specific localities.

The committee approved the proposed phased program of detailed cluster assessments and stakeholder engagement, with Phase 1 commencing during 2026-27, and instructed officers to report back on the outcomes.

Closure of Kinneff School Statutory Consultation Report

Maxine Booth presented the report on the statutory consultation regarding the permanent closure of Kinneff School. The consultation ran from January to March 2026, with two public meetings held and an online survey. The majority of responses favoured merging Kinneff School with Catterline School, citing historical and current close links between the communities. Pupil engagement also indicated a preference for Catterline School. HM Inspectors supported the closure and realignment of the catchment to Catterline School. The Kincardine and Mearns Area Committee welcomed the consultation and requested clarity on school transport arrangements and consideration for moving playground equipment.

Councillor Louise McAllister thanked Max Booth for answering her questions regarding school transport and playground equipment, agreeing that the proposal had been well-received by the community and parents. She noted that while the loss of a school is never ideal, under these circumstances, it was seen as a positive move and welcomed the welcoming comments from Catterline regarding the Kinneff children.

The committee recommended to consider the consultation report, the comments of the Kincardine and Mearns Area Committee, and to make a recommendation to Full Council to permanently close Kinneff School and reassign its catchment area to Catterline School.

Merger of Fintry School and King Edward School

Maxine Booth presented the report on the statutory consultation regarding the merger of Fintry and King Edward School. The proposal aims to merge the schools, retaining one building and discontinuing education at the other. The main drivers are educational benefits, addressing capacity issues, and retaining rural education. Both schools have underutilised capacity and declining rolls. Fintry School was mothballed in August 2025 due to a rapid decline in roll. The statutory consultation ran from February to March 2026. Public meetings and surveys indicated support for the merger but divided opinions on which building to retain. HMIE agreed there were potential educational benefits but considered neither site had a clear advantage, suggesting analysis of school rolls based on each site would be important.

Councillor Louise McAllister asked several questions regarding the initial closure of Fintry due to falling rolls, the acceptability of temporary classrooms lacking toilets and handwashing facilities at King Edward School, winter weather considerations for schools with separate buildings, and the legal status of the King Edward School car park. Max Booth addressed these points, confirming the reasons for Fintry's mothballing, the acceptability of temporary classrooms elsewhere, the clearing of walkways in winter, and the ongoing investigation into the car park ownership. Reverend Carl Irvine questioned the safety of the road outside King Edward School and who clears the paths in winter. Max Booth confirmed slow measures are in place on the road and that janitors clear paths. Councillor Gordon Lang asked if the possibility of Fintry reopening had been considered, potentially causing a predicament. Max Booth stated some parents expressed they might not go to Fintry if moved back, but without absolute numbers, they could not predict the forecast. Councillor Jim Gifford questioned why the split zones for secondary pupils were not considered for change. Max Booth confirmed it was considered, but communities preferred the split zone. Councillor Richard Menard asked about the accessibility for school transport in bad weather to Fintry and King Edward. Max Booth confirmed public transport to King Edward was considered. Susan Smith, Head Teacher of King Edward School, commented on how well the children had settled back into school, describing it as thriving. Councillor Anne Ross asked which school had better provision for ASN needs. Max Booth explained both have ASN spaces, but King Edward has more scope for sensory spaces and internal reconfiguration. Councillor Leanne McWhinnie asked about support for children needing extra support if they moved back to Fintry. Max Booth reassured that transition would be phased and individualised. Councillor Geoff Croson asked if a new build super rural primary had been considered. Max Booth stated a new build was not considered due to cost and sufficient capacity in existing buildings, emphasizing the goal to retain rural schools and make them viable. Councillor Anne Ross asked when the merger actually took place, feeling it was putting the cart before the horse. Laurence Findlay clarified that Fintry was mothballed due to a rapid roll decline, and the statutory process is now being followed. Anne Ross also asked about the financial cost of moving children back to Fintry. Rachel Goldring provided an estimate of less than £1,000 for reopening Fintry, covering cleaning, safety checks, and equipment transport. Councillor Richard Menard asked about the economic better of the two schools for energy costs. Rachel Goldring explained King Edward uses electricity for heat, while Fintry uses kerosene and electricity, with the Fintry boiler being older and needing replacement.

Councillor Keating proposed a motion to recommend to Full Council that King Edward School be retained, citing HMIE recommendations, teacher views, flexibility, lower maintenance costs, and reduced CO2 emissions. Councillor Jim Gifford seconded the motion, agreeing with the points raised, particularly sustainability and pupil happiness. Councillor Louise McAllister proposed an amendment to retain Fintry School, citing its exceptional external facilities, safety of the road, being under one roof, upgraded toilets, and a Grade A suitability assessment. Councillor Catherine Victor seconded the amendment, agreeing Fintry appeared to be the better school based on the information. After a vote, the motion to retain King Edward School was carried with 12 votes to 3.

Kellands Language Unit Statutory Consultation

Karen Chapman presented the report on the proposed closure of Kellands Language Unit, established in the 1980s to support children with developmental language disorder. She explained that legislation, policy, and practice have evolved, with current approaches favouring mainstream support through inclusive communication toolkits and partnerships. Professional opinion from speech and language therapists and educational psychologists is that the unit model is outdated, especially given that developmental language disorder is now understood as a lifelong condition. There is no data evidencing better outcomes for children attending the unit compared to those supported in their local schools. The Speech and Language Therapy Service withdrew from the unit a few years ago, meaning it no longer offers specialist input not available elsewhere. Consequently, no children have attended the unit for some time. The committee was asked to approve the undertaking of a statutory consultation on the proposal to close the unit. The committee agreed.

Aberdeenshire Children and Young People's Services Plan Annual Report 2025-26 and Services Plan 2026-29

Nicola Kenyon presented the Annual Report for the 2023-26 Children and Young People's Services Plan and the new Plan for 2026-29. She highlighted progress in partnership working, focusing on prevention, early intervention, and improving outcomes. Key developments include strengthened children's rights and participation, with more coordinated engagement informing decision-making. The new plan was developed through extensive engagement with children, young people, families, communities, and partner organisations. The five priority areas remain the same: mental health, the promise, disabilities and additional support needs, youth services, and whole family wellbeing. A notable development is the stronger alignment between children's services planning priorities and tackling child poverty.

Councillor Anne Simpson asked about feedback on the plan from the Scottish Government and if comments are still received. Nicola Kenyon confirmed the plan had not yet been submitted but a draft format had been shared, and feedback from the government usually arrives the following year. Councillor Simpson also expressed interest in seeing how Aberdeenshire compares with the rest of Scotland in terms of engagement. Laurence Findlay, Director of Education and Children's Services, explained that the GIRFEC Strategic Group, which he chairs, receives operational feedback from the government, and last year Aberdeenshire received positive commentary, with the only critique being around resourcing.

Councillor Catherine Victor thanked Nicola Kenyon for the detailed and positive report, welcoming the collaboration between agencies. She highlighted the 29% increase in children placed in kinship care as gratifying and praised the 100% concessions for families needing LLA support. She also commented positively on the Youth Rights Ambassador Programme and multi-agency collaboration. Regarding youth clubs and hubs mentioned in the plan, Councillor Victor asked if the Council had plans to help areas establish them. Nicola Kenyon confirmed that the Youth Services group is taking forward the theme of young people feeling safe and valued, and that there have been discussions on how to address this collectively. She also mentioned that application forms for funding have been submitted to support youth engagement and spaces. Councillor Anne Ross asked for clarification on the GERFEC Strategic Group, confirming her understanding that it is multi-service and operational. She requested feedback from this committee on what is discussed and achieved. Laurence Findlay clarified that GERFEC is a strategic group, not operational, and brings together statutory partners from NHS, Police Scotland, and the third sector. He explained that the plan presented to the committee is the partnership's endeavour and provides an opportunity to see the work done and planned. He also addressed Councillor Ross's question about resources, stating that partners look at the needs of young people and how their resources can contribute, rather than focusing on who pays the most. Councillor Louise McAllister asked for more information about the tell us once approach mentioned on page 427. Laurence Findlay explained this is part of the work to keep the promise for care-experienced young people, preventing them from having to repeatedly share their experiences with different agencies. Councillor Anne Ross followed up on resources, asking which public sector body contributes the largest amount. Laurence Findlay explained it's difficult to quantify as all partners have significant resources, and the focus is on the needs of young people rather than who pays the most. The committee agreed to consider and comment on the annual report and the new services plan, and to receive annual progress reports.

Relationships, Learning and Behaviour Policy

Karen Chapman presented the draft Relationships, Learning and Behaviour Policy and associated Guidance, which will replace the 2022 documents. The updated guidance has a greater focus on children's rights, prevention, early intervention, and alternatives to restraint and seclusion. The policy was developed in close collaboration with headteachers, and incorporated feedback from pupils and parents.

Billy Bilsland, a staff representative, commented that behaviour and positive relationships remain a major issue in schools, and while the paper details many policies, the reality is often limited by capacity and resources, particularly with increasing class sizes and needs. He noted that a minority of disengaged pupils continue to exhibit aggressive behaviour. He also raised concerns about the usefulness of policies in identifying strategies and resources to meet issues, beyond universal support which often means more work for class teachers.

Councillor Louise McAllister found the document interesting, particularly the inclusion of young people's voices. She noted the low parent attendance at the parent group and the difficulty in reaching those most affected. She questioned how to define serious harm in the context of duty of care. Karen Chapman explained that serious harm is subjective and depends on the individual's experience and the impact on their wellbeing. She also addressed Councillor Anne Ross's questions about the number of restraint incidents, stating that the recording system has been adjusted for better data. She confirmed that school leaders were involved in developing the guidance and that much of the approach is not new. Training is already available, and there is no additional resource associated with the guidance, nor a reduction in support. Regarding non-verbal children, she explained it depends on the child's communication mode and staff knowledge.

Councillor Anne Ross asked why the formal review was not until 2031 and if the committee would receive earlier progress reports. Lisa Lees explained that it's a standard five-year review, but national guidance will be updated by the end of 2026, with a consultation period in 2027, meaning they would return to the committee before then. Councillor Jim Gifford commented on the policy's focus on rights but lack of mention of responsibilities, expressing concern about the one-sided nature of the document. Laurence Findlay, Director of Education and Children's Services, responded that the wording is directly from national guidance and the overall aim is to prevent and intervene early. He assured that headteachers would be briefed to feel confident in their actions. Councillor Anne Ross endorsed the director's response and hoped Aberdeenshire Council would take responsibility, supporting teachers. The Vice-Chair welcomed the news of revisiting the policy and suggested feeding back any difficulties staff might experience. The committee approved the Relationships, Learning and Behaviour Policy for Education Establishments, 2026, for immediate implementation, and noted the associated guidance.

Community Learning and Development Annual Service Report 2025-26 and Service Delivery Plan 2026-27

Dominic Carlisle-Kitz presented the Community Learning and Development (CLD) Annual Service Report and Delivery Plan. He highlighted the service's positive year in 25/26, with impactful statements from learners and impressive statistics. Despite a smaller and more targeted service, they have achieved a high level of delivery. Targets for nationally recognised awards are 80% met, with 121 young people achieving awards. Volunteer numbers are above target, with 11 volunteers supporting CLD delivery and community groups. Examples of support include digital skills for adult learners and flexible pathways for young people. He also mentioned community-based youth work support and the network established for these groups. CLD offers learning opportunities to vulnerable residents, helping them progress towards their learning goals, with 91.8% of learners achieving their outcomes. The delivery plan aligns with Aberdeenshire Council priorities and place and wellbeing outcomes.

Councillor Anne Simpson welcomed the report, noting her dedication to CLD. She questioned the figures for local learning community partnerships in Kincardine and Mearns (23 sessions), Marr (26 sessions), and Banff and Buchan (6 sessions), finding them low compared to SIMD figures. Jane, a team leader, explained that staffing had been a challenge in Banff and Buchan, but this has now been addressed, and they expect an increase in sessions. She also noted that local learning community partnerships organise themselves independently, with varying meeting frequencies and subgroups. Councillor Louise McAllister also noted page 560 and found the explanation helpful. She asked for a further breakdown of the 16-64 age cohort in the demographics. Dominic Carlisle-Kitz explained they follow national grouping but can break it down using their system, Cognizof. The committee agreed to receive this breakdown as an action. The committee agreed to consider and note the CLD Annual Service Report and Service Delivery Plan, and to agree the approach to reporting twice yearly.

Instrumental Music Service Annual Report 2025-26

Dominic Carlisle-Kitz introduced the report, supported by Justin Brooke, Music Development Manager. Justin Brooke reported strong participation levels with over 3,000 pupils accessing instrumental music tuition. Digital delivery remains embedded for efficiency. Senior music instructor posts have been introduced to strengthen local leadership. Aberdeenshire Youth Music Sessions (AYMS) continue to play an important role, with strong participation and projects delivered across Aberdeenshire. The AYMS Young Leader programme developed further, providing opportunities for senior pupils. Partnerships with national and local organisations have been strengthened. The Scottish Young Musicians Regional Competition demonstrated high standards.

Councillor Leanne McWhinnie welcomed the report and thanked officers for including data on pupils receiving free school meals. She focused on the waiting list of 1700 pupils, asking about average waiting times and the possibility of pupils never receiving tuition. She also inquired if the waiting list was specific to certain instruments or areas. Justin Brooke explained that waiting lists are high across Scotland due to capacity issues, but they have improved management. He confirmed it's possible for some pupils to never receive tuition, and that piano, upper strings, and guitar are in highest demand.

Councillor Louise McAllister commented positively on the report, particularly the National Youth Orchestra of Scotland in the North and the North East Community Music organisation. She asked about the uptake of SQA courses and if they anticipate surpassing previous figures. Justin Brooke confirmed the increase in SQA uptake and anticipated this trend continuing, possibly due to fewer external exams being entered, which have become expensive. Councillor Catherine Victor asked about the lack of bagpipe and drum tuition in the South, questioning if it was due to lack of demand or tuition availability. Justin Brooke explained it was due to capacity, with only one full-time piping instructor and one part-time pipe drum instructor. He mentioned a new chanter project to encourage beginners throughout the shire. The committee agreed to note the achievements of the service.

Fostering Service Annual Report 2025-26

Catherine Irvin presented the Fostering Service Annual Report, highlighting the significant contribution of foster carers and the challenges facing fostering services nationally. Aberdeenshire has 71 fostering households caring for 81 children and young people. Positive developments include a completed fostering service review, a one team approach, the introduction of a therapeutic parenting coach, and the development of Aberdeenshire's own preparation to foster training programme. However, only one new fostering household was approved, and the number of households reduced by nine. Referrals increased, particularly for teenagers and children with complex needs.

Councillor Louise McAllister sought clarification on permanent foster care, asking if it meant adoption. Catherine Irvin explained it relates to legal orders where children remain looked after but may have parental rights and responsibilities transferred. She also asked about support for foster carers who cannot drive and if exit interviews are conducted. Catherine Irvin confirmed that driving is a criterion due to Aberdeenshire's geography, but they would consider support for learning to drive. Exit interviews are offered, and feedback has informed improvements.

Councillor Leanne McWhinnie asked for clarification on reducing reliance on independent fostering agencies while also having fewer foster carers. Catherine Irvin explained that a project is underway to increase local capacity, which will be discussed in a later paper. Councillor Anne Ross asked where children are placed if there is a shortage of foster carers and if this contributes to out-of-authority care costs. Catherine Irvin explained that they explore family members first, then independent fostering agencies, and sometimes placements outside Aberdeenshire are necessary. She assured that teams work to maintain contact with important people in the child's life. Councillor Geoff Croson, a foster carer himself, expressed concern about the driving licence requirement, suggesting support for learning to drive. He also asked about comparing foster carer allowances and how they are distributed. He noted hearing about reasons why foster carers might move to agencies and suggested a more detailed report. He also raised the issue of needing a spare room for foster carers and asked if support could be offered for single people to acquire larger housing. He acknowledged the work of fostering stalls at shows like the New Deer Show. Catherine Irvin addressed these points, stating driving is a criterion due to geography but they would consider support for learning. She agreed that benchmarking allowances would be helpful and that reasons for carers leaving are considered. She also confirmed support for those seeking larger housing.

The committee recommended to consider and note the Fostering Service Annual Report, recognise the contribution of foster carers and the team, and continue to support the Service's work to recruit and retain foster carers. Councillor McAllister requested that the foster carers receive thanks from the committee, which was agreed.

Minutes of the Meeting of the Educational Trust Subcommittee

The committee noted the minutes of the meeting of the Educational Trust Subcommittee held on 6 March 2026.

The Chair confirmed that the public section of the meeting had concluded and thanked attendees for their interest. The meeting would then proceed into a private session.