Closure proposed at Ae Primary School

A VILLAGE primary school that has been mothballed for more than three years is now edging towards permanent closure.

However, the community in Ae are anxious about the loss of their primary school, and what it would mean for the village beyond education.

The school has been temporarily closed since March 2023, and the community council was granted a two-year lease in early 2024 in order for the building to be utilised for running clubs, social events, celebrations, as well as regular community council meetings.

However, there is uncertainty over its future as Dumfries and Galloway Council’s education department is recommending closing the building for good.

At this week’s education committee, councillors will be asked to trigger the statutory consultation process.

A report by education officer Louise Rae reveals the anticipated school roll for 2026/27 was just two.

She noted community drop-ins were held at the school on May 5 and 8, attended by 15 members of the community plus two primary aged children.

Officers outlined a range of potential alternatives being considered and

attendees were encouraged to provide feedback on these, with particular reference to likely educational impact, community impact, and travel and transport considerations.

Officers also invited any other ‘reasonable and realistic alternatives’ to closure.

A further 15 responses were submitted through an online survey.

Respondents repeatedly described the school building as the heart of Ae village – the only available public space since the closure of the local café and bike shop, and the venue for everything from community council meetings and yoga classes to Christmas parties and an over-55s social group.

When asked about their preferred option, the majority favoured reopening – but acknowledged this was only realistic with sufficient pupil numbers.

Several described reopening as an aspiration rather than an immediate possibility, noting benefits including small class sizes, outdoor learning, walkable access for village children, and the role of the school in bringing families and generations together.

For those willing to accept the building may not reopen as a school, the overwhelming preference was for it to remain a community facility.

Suggestions included a community hub or village hall, youth clubs, fitness classes, a library or book club, a computer club for older residents, and a base for outdoor education activities connected to the nearby forest.