Councillors approve new Shawfair all-through school
Councillors have approved plans for a new all-through school and education campus at Shawfair.
For young people aged 2 to 18
At the full Council meeting today (Tuesday), councillors agreed to establish the new campus for 2-18-year-olds, incorporating early learning, primary and secondary schools and provision for pupils with additional support needs.
Changes to catchments
Councillors also approved the new catchment for the campus, including plans to realign the catchments of Danderhall Primary and Dalkeith High School.
Due to open in 2028
The new school is due to open on its permanent site in August 2028, or as soon as possible thereafter.
More than 300 survey responses
The decision follows a statutory consultation carried out between March and May 2026, which attracted 321 responses.
Strong support
A total of 87.2% of respondents supported the establishment of a new all-through school at Shawfair, while 88.5% backed the creation of new primary and secondary catchment areas for the campus. Support for the proposed realignment of the Danderhall Primary School and Dalkeith High School catchment areas stood at 82.9%.
Public and online meetings
The consultation also included a public meeting, pupil engagement sessions at Danderhall Primary School and Dalkeith High School, and virtual drop-in events.
Population growth
The new campus is being developed in response to rapid population growth and ongoing housing development in the Shawfair and Danderhall area, which have increased pressure on local school places.
Pleased with response
Cabinet Member for Education, Councillor Ellen Scott, said: "Many thanks to everyone who took part in the consultation.
Help for young people with Additional Support Needs
“The new 2-18 campus will provide high-quality learning environments for children and young people from early years through to secondary education, while also including specialist additional support needs provision.
Smoother learning transitions
"This investment will help meet the needs of our growing communities, support smoother transitions between stages of learning and ensure children and young people have access to the facilities and opportunities they need to thrive."
Inspectors note benefits
An independent report by His Majesty's Inspectorate of Education recognised the potential educational benefits of the proposal, including improved transitions, enhanced ASN provision and reduced pressure on other schools in the area.