Formal Board Paper 1 Annex 1.14 - Education

This document contains a summary of evidence for Schedule 14: Education, which is part of the Cairngorms National Park Local Development Plan. It examines the current educational landscape within and around the Cairngorms National Park, covering demographics, school infrastructure, and relevant policies. The report shows a decreasing school-age population and rising median age, with birth rates lower than the Scottish average. It details the condition, suitability, and capacity of primary and secondary schools, as well as nurseries, across the different local authorities covering the National Park. Some primary schools, including Abernethy, Carrbridge, and Newtonmore, along with Alford Academy, are identified as having potential capacity challenges. The document explains that developer contributions are vital for funding new or improved education facilities, with specific requirements set by each local authority when new housing developments might impact school capacity, aligning with the National Planning Framework 4's 'infrastructure first' approach. It also discusses the importance of outdoor learning, the lack of higher education facilities within the National Park, and how housing availability affects teacher retention. Overall, this evidence is considered sufficient to inform the development of the upcoming Proposed Plan.