Aberdeen parents seek Catholic secondary school consultation

Aberdeen skyline by Polka w UK on Unsplash

Parents in Aberdeen are once again calling on the City Council to seriously consider the viability of establishing a Catholic secondary school. The city currently has three Catholic primary schools but no Catholic secondary provision.

The campaign is being led by parents' groups, including the Parent Councils of Aberdeen's Catholic primary schools, and has the backing of the Bishops' Conference of Scotland, including the Bishop of Aberdeen, and the Scottish Catholic Education Service.

In a 2024 Council consultation, 82% of respondents supported a Catholic secondary school. Most recently, an online portal has received hundreds of responses from parents expressing support for Catholic secondary education in the city.

In 2024 and 2025, the full Council overturned Education Committee proposals to explore Catholic secondary provision. A third proposal, approved by the committee in September 2026, has again been referred to the full Council.

A local Catholic parent whose children attend one of Aberdeen's Catholic primary schools said: "Our children are receiving a wonderful Catholic education, and we would love them to have the opportunity to continue that education into secondary school.

"We understand there are financial and practical questions, but all we are asking is that the Council takes a serious look at whether a Catholic secondary school could be viable in Aberdeen."

John Murray, the Catholic Church's representative on Aberdeen City Council's Education and Children's Services Committee, said: "Parents are not asking the Council to commit to building a new school tomorrow. They are asking for a fair and meaningful examination of what might be possible.

"With several Catholic primary schools already in the city, it is entirely reasonable to explore the viability of Catholic secondary provision. I strongly support the parents' campaign and hope the Council will work constructively with families and the Church."

Parents across Aberdeen are being encouraged to make their views known to the local authority.

Campaigners are seeking an open consultation and a proper assessment of demand, practical options and financial implications, so that any future decision can be based on clear evidence.