By Claire Warrender

THE NEWS that Kirkland High School and Community College is one of Scotland’s first 20 Schools of Ambition has been hailed as excellent news for both the school and the wider Levenmouth area.

Rector Ronnie Ross, who joined the school in December, said it proved Kirkland had the potential to be among the best in the country.

Each school chosen has committed to radical programmes of development to secure significantly improved outcomes for their children. They will each receive £100,000 a year while they are on the programme to meet their plans.

The schools are a mix of high performers wanting to reach even higher, those that need to improve after poor inspection reports, and those that recognise they can move their performance up several gears.

Speaking during a visit to Glasgow, first Minister Jack McConnell said, “Schools of Ambition are a major innovation at the head of our wider education reforms. They represent everything we want our schools to be about—aiming high, stretching, challenging and inspiring their pupils.

“Our schools need to have high expectations and ambitions for each and every one of our pupils, they need to offer every pupil the opportunity to recognise their talents and achieve their full potential.”

At Kirkland High, it is hoped the award will help address the falling school roll and persuade parents to send children to their local school.

Expressing the school’s delight, Mr Ross said, “This is an opportunity for the whole school and community to raise their game to become a centre of excellence.

“It is particularly good news for the young people who have been behind our bid all the way, taking part in the presentation and bid process. We’re pleased the Scottish Executive has recognised that Kirkland and its young people have great potential.”

Local politicians were queuing up to congratulate Kirkland yesterday.

Central Fife MSP Christine May said the award was well deserved following a period of very hard work and a huge amount of community support.

“I was at the end of term concert on Thursday night and I have rarely seen such quality of music, dance, drama and self-confidence.”

She added, “Given this means support from industry, cash support from the Government, and support for the programme of reform in place at the school, it’s my view that this will help to lead Levenmouth back into its rightful place.

“I would also pay tribute to Councillor Joyce Smith, a long-term and vocal supporter of the school.”

Miss Smith, who represents Methilhill, declared herself “over the moon” at the news and said, “It’s due to the enthusiasm and leadership of the new rector Ronnie Ross who gives confidence to pupils and staff. The minute you walk in the school door there’s a buzz about the place.

“I would now like to see parents from the catchment area having enough confidence in the school to send their kids there, instead of incurring great transport costs getting to Anstruther and Cupar.”

The news was also hailed by Councillor Kay Morrison, Fife Council spokeswoman for school children.

She said the falling roll was based on “public perception which is erroneous. There are lots of dedicated, skilled teachers in there and plenty of hard-working pupils. This really says Kirkland High School is doing well, and will do better and better.”