Heriot, a rural village near the northern boundary of the region, is appealing for families to move in as it faces a decline in pupil numbers at its primary school. It would have been the largest of the villages, home to perhaps 160 houses. For the first time in more than 30 years, its student enrollment has fallen below 26. Rich Williams, parent council chair, has lived there for five years. He is passionate about the holistic environment Heriot gives the kids, an environment that allows kids to reach their true potential.
Williams is particularly proud that Heriot’s academic accomplishments rank very well compared to other local schools. In it, he reflects on those small class sizes that let the passionate teachers focus on individual students with care. “It’s not just about the school’s scores: everyone says Heriot children are special,” he remarked, emphasizing the community’s values. He stressed how the school serves as a dynamic center for meetings, activities and celebrations. This uniquely creates a tangible collective spirit that these young people already bring.
The village provides parents with so many learning opportunities. Williams underscored the dynamic initiatives taking place in Heriot. The village has a newly refurbished village hall used for a community cafe, ceilidhs, music nights, Bonfire night celebrations, pub nights and an annual fun sports day to name just a few activities. He pointed out the fantastic outdoor facilities that surround Heriot. Relaxing, soothing, healing hill walks await you, and nearby the stunning mountain-bike trails of Glentress beckon.
Julie Pirone, who oversees the education portfolio, said she agreed with Williams and that Heriot is an excellent school. She understands the challenges that rural communities are experiencing, as child populations decrease. Heriot is not the only one feeling this demographic pinch. Heriot and her experiences are echoed in other rural spaces. A school with half the number of children as the pastor Williams was describing, for example.
Williams knows that changing the game on this crucial point means working together, in true collaborative spirit. What we haven’t been very good at is taking a joined-up approach at tackling this,” he added. What we need to do is permit more homes. Here’s hoping we can help get even more families to come home to the region!
These community members are hopeful that their dreams of revitalization will soon become a reality. Williams shared optimism that should pupil numbers rise, the school would find itself recalibrating its class sizes to prepare for that growth. “You know, if those numbers swing, we’ll revisit these classes and take a look a second time,” he said.
It’s attractive location provides families with the peace of a rural environment, while being within 40 minutes drive of Edinburgh. Gavin Whittaker, with all the local charm you could want. He adds, “Heriot is situated in one of the most stunning parts of the country, with direct access to some really great walking and cycling routes.
