We are calling for a formal review and Statutory Consultation of the Gilberstoun school catchment boundaries to ensure they reflect geographic proximity, pupil safety, and common sense community alignment. Gilberstoun lies approximately 900 yards from Portobello High School, yet families are currently assigned to Castlebrae Community High School, over 2.7 miles away, requiring pupils to travel past Portobello High en route. Following the relocation of Portobello High to Milton Road, the school is now even closer and more accessible for Gilberstoun residents. Despite this, the existing catchment boundary at Daiches Braes sits just 100 yards from Gilberstoun, separating our community from Brunstane Primary and Portobello High School, which are the nearest schools and offer the safest walking routes along the same Brunstane Road South corridor. These arrangements have a direct and material impact on journey length, pupil safety, and community cohesion. We therefore request clarity on whether a review of the catchment boundaries for Gilberstoun can be initiated, alongside transparency on the consultation process and expected timescales for community engagement. This review is essential to ensure that school catchments are fair, logical, and centred on the wellbeing of pupils and families.
