Independent review to be carried out into closure of New School Butterstone

An independent review has been commissioned into the closure of the New School Butterstone in Perthshire in November 2018.

24 children with additional needs were left in limbo when the school suddenly shut its doors.

It's since re-opened under new management - but parents have called for the Education Secretary to grant an an independent inquiry into what happened.

Susan Briggs' son has autism and attended the unit - she says this announcement is a significant step.

"I'm really delighted to hear this news. We've been fighting for answers into the sudden closure and I'm delighted and relived by this announcement," she said

"Children were traumatised by the closure, families ripped apart and careers were ruined.

"It was a good successful school which worked with vulnerable kids and it was closed with no warning whatsoever, resulting in massive trauma to all the kids who attended."

Parents say they'll still fight for a full public inquiry.

Angie Gordon was head of care at the unit and is part of the campaign group. She admits she'd given up hope of their calls being answered.

"It absolutely felt like it (independent review) would never come. The young people, the familes and staff have pushed for this for over 11 months now," she said.

"I am hopeful this independent review changes policy and procedure, and allows for greater transparency in terms of regulatory bodies and how these decisions are made."

The review will consider the procedures followed by the school’s board and a range of public bodies in advance of the decision to close the school.

Mr Swinney said: "The sudden closure of the New School Butterstone had a significant impact on the pupils, their families and staff, and our priority since then has been to ensure the wellbeing of all the former pupils.

"I have met many of the families and staff and heard their concerns regarding the closure.

"This Independent Review will consider the actions of all relevant bodies and, if applicable, identify any learning that can enhance practice in the future."

Perth & Kinross Council Chief Executive Karen Reid said: “I very much welcome this review.

“The Council has repeatedly stated its support for a review into the abrupt closure of The New School at Butterstone.

“The Council will support the review in any way we can."

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