A primary school is set to take part in an inclusive education scheme.
St Mary’s Primary in Duntocher will be included in West Dunbartonshire’s Enhanced Local Learning Community (LLC) model, which supports children with complex needs in mainstream classrooms.
The LLC model was piloted in 2024/25 at Linnvale, Knoxland and Levenvale primary schools, where it supported 13 pupils through extra staffing, professional development and transition planning.
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Participating schools reported positive outcomes, with children thriving in a socially inclusive environment and avoiding costly placements outside the authority that take them away from their friends.
In 2025/26, St Mary’s will support an additional five pupils, while the original three schools will welcome six more under the scheme's expansion.
This expansion was confirmed in a report to West Dunbartonshire Council’s educational services committee on September 17.
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Councillor William Rooney, who represents Kilpatrick ward, said: “It’s brilliant to see this outstanding initiative now introduced at St Mary’s Primary School in Duntocher.
“The success of the Enhanced Local Learning Community model reflects the dedication of our staff, who go above and beyond to deliver inclusive, high-quality education for every child.
“I’m really proud of this innovative scheme in West Dunbartonshire and the brighter future it’s helping to create for these children.”
The LLC model aims to strengthen capacity for pupils with complex needs within mainstream schools rather than create separate specialist settings.
Central officers and educational psychologists will continue to provide training and adapt school environments to support students’ needs, ensuring each child’s transition is supported by a strong team around them.
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