The future of Buckie Community High School (BCHS) remains unclear as parents and local officials express frustration over ongoing delays in planning for the school’s future. Throughout 2025, discussions surrounding BCHS have been contentious, particularly after the school lost out on funding from the Scottish Government for a new facility, which was allocated instead to Forres Academy. As 2026 begins, calls for action are intensifying as the Moray Council has indicated a lack of financial resources to pursue meaningful plans for BCHS.
In June, a public meeting at the school confirmed that options for a full new build, a combination of rebuild and refurbishment, or extensive renovations were deemed “unaffordable.” Local councillors Sonya Warren and Neil McLennan shared their perspectives with Grampian Online on the pressing need for clarity regarding the school’s future.
Warren described the ongoing situation as one of the most significant local issues of 2024 and emphasized that it would continue to be a focal point in 2026. She stated, “The uncertainty has been incredibly frustrating for families, staff, and the wider community. People recognize that the current building is no longer fit for purpose, and they’ve been waiting a long time for clarity on what will actually happen and when.”
Looking ahead, she laid out her vision for 2026, which includes a clear, costed, and deliverable plan that addresses the long-standing ambiguity surrounding BCHS. “We need certainty on which model we’re committing to—whether it’s a new build or deep refurbishment—and a realistic timeline for delivery,” she added. Warren also called for improved engagement from the Scottish Government and a phased plan that minimizes disruption to students’ learning.
Despite the ongoing uncertainty, BCHS students have continued to achieve impressive academic results, reflecting the dedication of the teaching staff and the resilience of the students. “A modern school would give our young people the facilities they deserve and send a strong message about the future of Buckie,” Warren emphasized.
McLennan echoed these sentiments, expressing disappointment over what he termed “shameful” political maneuvering that has delayed progress on the new school. He recalled his proposed balanced budget in 2023, which aimed to kickstart the construction of a new BCHS. “That budget was blocked as a result of shameful petty politicking,” he stated, highlighting his efforts to engage auditors regarding the matter.
He criticized both the SNP and the Conservative parties for failing to deliver a new high school, asserting that their focus has been misplaced. “At present, Buckie bairns are being failed,” McLennan said, pointing out that students in other areas benefit from modern facilities while those in Buckie are left behind.
The councillor also raised concerns about whether the rights of Buckie’s children, which are now legally enshrined, are being upheld. He noted that the council’s response to his inquiries was generated by artificial intelligence, which he found unsatisfactory. “I will keep pursuing this matter—advocating for a new Community High School that ensures equality with other towns across Moray,” he stated.
As the community looks towards 2026, the overarching sentiment is one of urgency. Parents, educators, and local leaders are calling for decisive action to address the educational needs of students in Buckie. The hope is that the forthcoming year will bring the clarity and commitment necessary to secure a bright future for Buckie Community High School.
