A fresh chapter is about to begin for education in Tobermory, as plans to create a brand new campus at the southern edge of the town have taken an important step forward.
Argyll and Bute Councillors have approved the next stage of the project, which will see a formal education consultation begin this August.
The six-week consultation is a key part of the Schools Consultation (Scotland) Act 2010, ensuring the voices of pupils, parents, staff and the wider community are heard as the vision for the new campus takes shape.
The proposed site, known as Tobermory South, lies beside the A848 and promises to provide a modern, purpose-built home for the existing 2 to 18 campus.
If approved, the new campus will offer a rich learning environment filled with modern technology, improved accessibility, and versatile indoor and outdoor spaces.
Plans include state-of-the-art facilities such as a science laboratory, a technology workshop, a home economics room, a music suite and a library.
The new campus will also welcome wider community use beyond school hours, helping to meet the social, leisure and learning needs of local residents of all ages.
Councillor Audrey Forrest, Policy Lead for Education, described the project as an exciting milestone for the area.
“We are making great progress towards relocating the existing campus to Tobermory South,” she said.
“As we develop a concept design and shape the overall business case, we look forward to working closely with young people, staff and consultees to ensure the new building reflects their needs and aspirations.”
She added:
“The opportunities this new campus will bring for our young people are very exciting, not only for those already in our schools, but for generations to come.”
By choosing a site close to the current campus, the Council hopes to minimise disruption and offer continuity for staff and pupils while opening new doors for learning and personal growth.
The statutory consultation will gather feedback from a wide range of groups, including Tobermory Early Learning and Childcare (ELC), Tobermory Primary and Tobermory High, as well as associated primaries at Dervaig, Salen (both Gaelic and English medium), Lochdonhead and Ulva.
Once the consultation period ends, a report will be prepared and submitted to Education Scotland for review, with the final decision returning to Councillors towards the end of 2025.
With strong community involvement and thoughtful planning, the future looks bright for education in Tobermory.
