Gradual decline in pupil numbers prompts ‘difficult decision’

Scottish Autism’s once groundbreaking school New Struan in Clackmannanshire is set to close.

- KAIYA MARJORIBANKS

A statement issued by the charity said it was with “deep sadness” that the executive directors and board had come to the “difficult decision” to close the school - and its residences - with effect from June 2026.

Originally opened as Struan House School in 1977, the school has provided high-quality, specialist education to hundreds of autistic children from all over Scotland.

The statement added: “New Struan is a proud part of our history. We recognise the excellent work still carried out by our team of teachers and support staff, and this decision is in no way a reflection on their dedication and hard work.

“However, times have changed, and local authorities are now seeking to support children closer to their own communities.

“We have seen a gradual decline in referrals over the past decade, and a school originally built for 42 young people now supports only six learners, three of whom will leave school in the summer.

“This makes it harder to provide a school community and shared learning experience that we have in the past. As a result of this shift in commissioning, neither the model offered, nor the financial situation faced by New Struan are sustainable.

“We hear every day from families about the challenges they face, accessing education for their young people.

“That's why Scottish Autism will continue to provide advice, support and information to families and young people, to drive change in education by campaigning for better provision for autistic learners, and to use the knowledge and skills our team has developed to offer local, individualised and inclusive support to autistic young people.”

The charity said that, given most autistic young people are now placed in mainstream schools, it is also seeing increasing demand for its training and consultancy service.