As young people across Fife head back to school or start school for the first time, Fife Council's education spokesperson Cllr Cara Hilton is wishing everyone all the best for the new school year.

"The school summer holidays have really flown by. I hope all our children, young people and school staff had an enjoyable break and are feeling rested and ready to start back. I know for some young people (and parents too) this can also be an anxious time. It can be tricky to get back into routine but it’s an exciting time too, especially for young people starting school for the first time, moving up to high school or into a new building.  Our teachers and school staff work really hard throughout the year to make sure all pupils receive the best learning and teaching to prepare as well as they can for the future and I’d encourage pupils and parents to reach out if they need some extra support or reassurance.

"I’d like to remind pupils and parents that the most effective way to get the best out of education and ensure a bright future is to be in school and attending classes regularly. All studies show that regular school attendance is a key factor in future exam success and in securing a positive destination, whether that be work, college or university. It’s also a great place to make lifelong friendships.

"I’m really excited that the Dunfermline Learning Campus will welcome its first pupils this term.  As a council we continue to invest in our children's future by building new schools and by continuing to improve and upgrade our existing buildings. Every young person should have the best possible learning environment and that’s what I want to deliver. I'd like to take this opportunity to especially welcome the students of St Columba's RC and Woodmill High Schools to their new building at the DLC. I know how excited my youngest two children and their friends are about starting at the DLC. It really is an outstanding learning environment and I hope you'll take full advantage of this new state of the art facility and the huge opportunities it will provide, work hard and try to do your best.

"To everyone returning to school this week I wish you every success.  Your school years can be the best of your life but, like all things, you'll only get back what you put in so work hard but don't forget to enjoy yourself too. I hope everyone has a great year!"