Glasgow School of Sport Closure Confirmed for 2029
Glasgow's School of Sport for young athletes is set to close in 2029, a decision that has now been officially confirmed.
Initial proposals aimed to close the Glasgow School of Sport (GSOS), located at Bellahouston Academy, in June of this year. These plans were later withdrawn following strong opposition from parents.
Recently, councillors approved a recommendation to keep the school operational until June 2029. This extension ensures that all 38 current pupils will be able to complete their education and sporting development pathway.
Background and Specialisations
Established in 1998, the school offers specialisations in athletics, badminton, gymnastics, hockey, and swimming. Notable alumni include Olympic swimmer Michael Jamieson and badminton player Kirsty Gilmour, who secured a silver medal at the Commonwealth Games.
During council discussions, it was noted that the school's model is considered "very outdated," as the current trend in sport development favours a generalist approach rather than early specialisation.
Bailie Annette Christie, chair of Glasgow Life and the city’s convener for culture, sport and international relations, stated, "The School of Sport had originally filled a gap as national governing bodies originally did not exist at that time or needed to be strengthened."
Current Student Numbers and Funding Challenges
A report indicated that there are currently 38 pupils enrolled from S3 to S6, a decrease from 60 pupils in April of the previous year. In 2024, a pause on new student admissions was introduced while the council and Glasgow Life sought additional funding support.
The council requested financial assistance to reflect the school's "national catchment" area; however, these requests were unsuccessful, according to the report.
Of the current students, 13 are from Glasgow, while 25 come from other council areas. Glasgow Life's expenditure for the School of Sport in the 2025/26 period was reported to be £730,000.
Community Response and Impact of Closure Proposal
The initial plan to close the school this year was met with significant anger from parents and pupils, who expressed feelings of abandonment due to the proposal.
Glasgow Life, which manages culture, leisure, and sport services for the council, commissioned the independent consultancy firm Kinharvie to collect feedback from students, families, sports clubs, and national governing bodies (NGBs).
The survey revealed that 82% of parents and pupils who participated believed the closure would have a "very negative impact" on students' sporting development.
Kinharvie also reported that the "prolonged uncertainty" regarding the school's future had "disrupted pupils' exams, competitions and subject choices, leaving many unable to plan for the future."
Future Funding Discussions
Bailie Christie mentioned that positive discussions have taken place with the Scottish government concerning future funding to support the development of talented young sports performers. However, no official agreements have been reached to date.
Reporting by Local Democracy Reporting Service reporter Drew Sandelands.
