A NEW school dedicated to supporting young people in care and those with additional learning needs opens tomorrow in Lockerbie.
Operated by care provider Common Thread, the new facility at Benreay will serve students from the region and the Central Belt, offering tailored education to young people who have experienced trauma or life-changing events.
With small class sizes and high staffing levels, Common Thread’s educational model supports children with a range of needs, including trauma backgrounds and autism.
The new Lockerbie school will have capacity for 15 pupils and a staff of four teachers. At present
it’s at half capacity with two teachers, with specialist teachers being brought in as needed for subjects like music.
Its facilities include an art room, music room, gym, sensory room, cooking room, and multifunctional spaces for both one-to-one and group learning.
The school’s thoughtfully designed spaces foster creativity, inspiration, and a sense of security—an essential foundation for students who have struggled in mainstream education.
Dumfries artist Lhea Johnstone has contributed artwork to enhance the environment, making it an inviting and inspiring place for learning.
Head of education Amelia Joseph, emphasised the importance of their unique approach, saying: “At Common Thread, we place the child at the centre of everything we do. Our bespoke educational packages open doors and provide opportunities for every young person to succeed at their own level and beyond.”
The official opening of the school will be on Friday and Common Thread’s CEO Sharon Boniface is looking forward to building on their success, adding: “I look forward to working with the team to further develop the values-based, person-centred approach that Common Thread has successfully established. Every child deserves an education that respects their unique experiences and abilities, and we are committed to making that a reality.”
