Killie super school to be named after late author
New names have been agreed for schools transferring to a new-build campus at Sutherland Drive, Kilmarnock.
In addition, the new site will be known as the William McIlvanney Campus, in honour of the world-renowned author, who was born and educated in Kilmarnock and who passed away just before Christmas.
Primary schools transferring to the William McIlvanney Campus are New Farm Primary School and Early Childhood Centre and Silverwood Primary School.
The new school will become James Hamilton Primary School and Early Childhood Centre.
Kilmarnock Academy and James Hamilton Academy will also transfer with the new secondary school to be named Kilmarnock Academy.
In addition Gaelic language provision for pupils aged from 3-18 will be offered at a newly created Sgoil nan coille nuadh – literally translated as New Woods School.
This will replace the Gaelic Medium Education provision offered at Onthank Primary School and Grange Academy.
The new names reflect extensive community consultation across a wide range of groups, including pupils, parents, staff and representatives from the local business and voluntary sectors.
A wide range of school names were suggested, with the campus name being proposed by Council Leader Douglas Reid who said: “I’m delighted we’ve been able to preserve the names of James Hamilton and William McIlvanney in Kilmarnock, who were both passionate about the provision of good education for young people.
“I’m also pleased that we will retain the Kilmarnock Academy name, with its long and distinguished history, on what will be its fourth location in the town since 1807.
“Centralising Gaelic language provision will also offer a springboard to the current plans we have to develop and expand Gaelic culture in East Ayrshire and I hope the new school will become an important focal point for these ambitions.
“The William McIlvanney Campus is a £45 million investment and shows we are clearly committed to offering every pupil the very best education possible, inspiring them to succeed in school, further education, at work, in their local communities and in life.”