The strategy considers:
- the educational needs of children and young people
- school buildings and facilities
- current and future pupil numbers
- rural communities
- school transport and travel
- modern and sustainable learning environments
- the role of schools within their communities
Strategy and supporting documents
Learning Estate Strategy
The strategy sets out our needs and objectives for the learning estate. It considers the buildings and facilities available, including potential shortfalls, surplus space and unsuitable or underused spaces.
Read the Learning Estate Strategy 2026 to 2031
Plain English guide
This guide explains the main principles of the Learning Estate Strategy. It includes key information, facts and illustrative examples.
The guide does not replace the full strategy or cover every aspect of it.
Communication and Engagement Plan
This plan sets out how we will communicate and engage with school communities when proposals affecting schools are being considered. It explains how people can get involved, share their views and receive updates throughout the process.
Rural School Estate Strategy
The Rural School Estate Strategy sits alongside the main Learning Estate Strategy. It provides a framework for considering rural school provision.
It takes account of the educational, geographical, demographic and community factors affecting rural areas.
Read the Rural School Estate Strategy 2026 to 2031
Individual schools
The Learning Estate Strategy provides a framework for planning our school estate. It does not determine the future of individual schools.
Any proposal affecting a specific school will be considered separately and will follow the appropriate decision-making and consultation process where required.
How the strategy was developed
Surveys and workshops held across Dumfries and Galloway in 2023 and 2024 helped inform the strategy.
The strategy considers the long-term needs of children and young people, school communities and the wider region.