New Tain Campus phased opening dates

The Highland Council has confirmed the arrangements for a phased opening of the new Tain Campus.

St Duthus and Primary School pupils (including Early Learning and Childcare) will attend from Wednesday, 22 April 2026. Tain Royal Academy pupils will attend after the SQA exam period has concluded and will start in the new campus from Wednesday, 3 June 2026.

• Phase 1 – St Duthus, the combined primary schools and ELC will start at the new campus on Wednesday 22 April 2026.
• Phase 2 – The Academy will start at the new campus on Wed 3 June 2026.

Education Committee Chair, Cllr John Finlayson said: “Significant progress has been made in delivering the new, state-of-the-art Tain Campus. Our immediate priority is to complete the final critical elements to ensure a smooth and successful transition for all pupils.

“We fully appreciate the impact of the delayed opening, particularly for pupils, parents, carers and staff who have been eagerly anticipating the move to the new Tain Campus. However, as previously stated, the Council will only take possession of this building once it has been completed to fully meet our requirements.

“We remain firmly committed to providing a campus that meets the highest standards, supports our long-term education objectives, and will serve the local community for generations to come. This decision will ensure that the campus will be fully prepared to welcome pupils on a phased basis from Wednesday, 22 April 2026.

“This approach has been carefully considered, informed by feedback from parents, carers, and staff, and guided by a thorough review of pupils’ educational needs. The phased transition is designed to provide continuity and stability for all learners as we prepare for the 2026/27 school year.”

A letter has been issued to parents and carers (Wednesday 14 January 2026) across all schools in the Tain Royal Academy catchment area outlining the revised arrangements, transition plans and proposed closure dates.

The Highland Council remains committed to delivering this high-quality building which will be the first school building in Highland to be designed to Passivhaus standards, and would like to express our thanks to the community for their continued support and patience during the final stage of this project.