Two Glenrothes secondary schools could merge as part of plans to replace the ageing institutions, The Courier can reveal.
David Ross, the leader of Fife Council, stated that the local authority intends to place £50 million aside to redevelop five high schools across the region in the coming years, including Glenrothes High and Glenwood High.
However, it is understood that any replacement of the town’s two oldest remaining secondaries would see both come under one roof.
While welcoming the prospect of a new school in the west of the town, local councillor Altany Craik said that any plans would be scrutinised closely before winning his full support.
“We have put £50 million aside in the capital plan for building new schools,” he said.
“Glenwood and Glenrothes High School are both good schools with really good pupils and staff.
“If we’re going to get a new school that is right for everyone then I’m in, but if we’re going to close two schools and get a poxy replacement then that’s not good enough.
“It has to be the right development, but this would be a really positive thing to do.”
Separated by just half a mile, Glenrothes High celebrated its 50th anniversary last year, while Glenwood is even older, having opened in 1962.
David Ross, the leader of the Labour Party administration at Fife House, said ahead of Thursday’s local budget that he hopes to replace five high schools across the Kingdom in the coming years.
As well as Glenwood and Glenrothes, Inverkeithing High School is thought to be a priority for replacement, along with Woodmill and St Columba’s High Schools in Dunfermline.
However, to replace all five schools it is thought around £150 million will be required, with previous projects having been funded in conjunction with the Scottish Government, which has provided two-thirds of the cost.
Pointing out to improvements in attainment since the town’s other secondary school, Auchmuty, was replaced in 2013, Mr Craik said that a combined Glenrothes and Glenwood High School could help pupils fulfil their potential.
Though admitting that any plans would depend on assistance from Holyrood, he added: “Replacing Glenwood and Glenrothes will come down to the Scottish Government, but we just need to make sure that we are ready with our share of the money.”
