Mike Russell MSP, Cabinet Secretary for Education and Lifelong Learning, visited Kilmarnock’s James Hamilton Academy on Monday to meet with Elected Members and senior Council officers to discuss educational issues – and Kilmarnock’s future.

After a welcome from Council Leader Councillor Douglas Reid, Mr Russell met with Councillor Iain Linton (Depute Leader) and Councillors Jim Roberts and Hugh Ross (Spokespersons for Lifelong Learning). Also attending were Chief Executive Fiona Lees, Executive Director of Educational and Social Services Graham Short, Head of Schools Andrew Sutherland and Head of Service: Community Support Kay Gilmour.

Graham Short briefed the group on progress in relation to plans for improving the school estate in East Ayrshire and in relation to meeting the national target of reducing class sizes to a maximum of 18 in Primaries 1-3.

The group also discussed Enterprise education, employability and the East Ayrshire Taskforce, set up address the significant challenges that Kilmarnock faces – especially in connection with the withdrawal of Diageo in 2012.

Councillor Douglas Reid said: “We were delighted to welcome Mike Russell to Kilmarnock to join our discussion. Educational attainment and regeneration are key priorities in East Ayrshire and events like this help us progress towards our goals.”

Councillor Jim Roberts said: “It was good to highlight our progress in connection with Curriculum for Excellence, class sizes and enterprising education in East Ayrshire schools. Mr Russell’s presence added an extra dimension to our business meeting.”

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