Statutory consultation on the proposal for the closure of St Teresa’s Nursery Class

We are conducting a public consultation from Thursday 10 September to Friday 6 November 2026. This is the period in which you will be able to make representation to us in respect of the proposal. It is important that everyone we are consulting with tells us about their thoughts on the proposal.  

This summary provides further information on where a full copy of the proposal can be obtained and also advises as to how you can make representation. 

The proposal 

We are proposing, subject to the outcome of the statutory consultation process, to close St Teresa’s Nursery Class.

It is proposed that St Teresa’s Nursery Class be closed with effect from 2 July 2027.

Reasons for this proposal 

This is considered to be the best option to address the reasons for the proposal which are; 

• North West Dumfries has significant over provision of Early Learning and Childcare (ELC), families within the area will continue to have flexibility and choice of ELC settings with two council-run, two private, voluntary and ondependent (PVI) nurseries plus childminders
• in common with all local authorities, we face significant financial pressures and are facing a £30 million funding gap over the next three financial years
• Dumfries and Galloway is experiencing a significant and sustained decline in its child population, with the National Records of Scotland forecasting an 18.5% reduction in the 0–15 age group between 2022 and 2036
• along with several other rural councils, we are facing increasing challenges in recruiting staff

Dumfries and Galloway Council Plan 2023-2028 

Councils, as an Education Authority, have a statutory duty in terms of the Education (Scotland) Act 1980 to make adequate and efficient provision of school education across their entire area for the current school population and future pattern of demand. This is reflected in Dumfries and Galloway Council Plan 2023-2028, Education and Learning Directorate.  

The council will improve education and learning opportunities to help all our children, young people and citizens fulfil their potential. This starts with pre-school, then school, before progressing into further or higher education or transition into work. We will work with our partners to create and promote lifelong learning opportunities so everyone in the region can live a meaningful and fulfilling life and contribute to their community.  

Strategic outcomes

• places of learning are inclusive, sustainable and meet the needs of local communities  
• we get it right for every child  
• children, young people and adults transition successfully through all life stages   
• young people and adults succeed in what they want to achieve   
• participation in creativity and play is part of early and lifelong learning experiences   
• local people can build their skills and confidence  

What we will do

We will consult by: 

• providing a notice of the consultation and a summary of the proposal to the relevant consultees 
• placing an advert in the local press 
• putting information on our website
• holding a public meeting to explain the proposal 
• ask all consultees to tell us what they think of the proposal 

What to do now 

• read the full proposal document 
• attend the public meeting which will be held on Tuesday 22 September 2026 at 6pm in St Teresa’s RC Primary School 
• let us know what you think by 5pm on Friday 6 November 2026

St Teresa's Nursery School consultation survey

or

Write to us at: Statutory Consultation – St Teresa’s Nursery Class 
Dumfries and Galloway Council   
Militia House  
109/111 English Street  
DG1 2HR  

Email: [email protected]  

Respondents are required to clearly state the capacity in which they are expressing their views and agree to their name and any statement/comments being published as part of the Statutory Consultation process and published in the final consultation report (all other personal information will be redacted). 

What next 

We are seeking your views on the proposal during the consultation period; it does not assume that the proposal will go ahead. All points raised during the consultation period will be included in the final consultation paper before being presented to Elected Members at Education, Skills and Community Wellbeing Committee on 16 February 2027 where a decision will be taken as to the outcome of this process. 

Please note that this summary document is for convenience only. Copies of the proposal paper can be obtained from: 

• St Teresa’s RC Primary School
• North West Community Campus
• Lincluden Primary School
• Dumfries and Galloway Council Headquarters