While Kingussie High School's current building dates from 1970, there has been a secondary school in the Kingussie area since the time of the Columban missionaries.

Four hundred pupils generally aged 12 - 18 come from a very wide area - from Drumochter to Aviemore, from Laggan to Kincraig - and their parents from all walks of life. Kingussie High aims to create as happy and productive a school as possible with as good examination results as possible, educating pupils in the widest sense whatever their ability. The school's Gaelic motto "Gu Dichiollach" means "With Diligence". High School facilities include two playing fields (one floodlit), a modern Technology block, and while there are 4 specialist computer suites, every classroom has now for several years enjoyed internet access.

Six associated primary schools - Aviemore, Alvie (at Kincraig), Dalwhinnie, Gergask (at Laggan), Kingussie and Newtonmore work closely with the High School to ensure as smooth a transfer as possible for all the youngsters involved.

A very wide programme of extra-curricular activities has been in operation covering many sports and leisure activities.

While in general the High School curriculum is in essence that common to most Scottish Schools there are a number of unique features. For example, pupils receive a grounding in both French and German as well as a very thorough induction in ICT skills to give a solid basic computer expertise. Similarly the programme of outdoor education has been developed to take particular advantage of our natural surroundings. The school strives to constantly keep to the forefront of new technology. With music being a major interest in our area, High School staff have built very effectively on this to create a wind band and folk-group which have achieved notable successes. Strong Education/Industry links underpin a whole series of experiences for virtually all year-groups involving many individuals with a wealth of commercial and public-sector expertise working with youngsters in the school.

Having a particular interest generating a European and international awareness and confidence which colours the curriculum in many ways, the High School enjoys an excellent link with the Erich Klausner Gymnasium in Adenau in the Rheinlandpfalz area of Germany and this has involved many successful pupil changes and other joint activities. In the same way, there is an annual ski trip to the Alps and many other international ventures over the years.

Kingussie High School pupils have over recent years demonstrated a remarkable series of achievements - an up to date extensive list is set out in the school Website. Indeed the hard work of pupils and staff, and the support of parents was recognised in May 2000 when the Rector represented the school at a reception given by Queen Elizabeth in Buckingham Palace to celebrate achievement in schools. Kingussie was one of 10 Scottish secondary schools so recognised.

For further information visit the School’s own website at www.kingussiehigh.highland.sch.uk