Drumduan School and Kindergarten future in Moray secured thanks to ‘extraordinary’ act of generosity from anonymous donor

An “extraordinary” act of generosity from an anonymous donor has helped secure the future of a Moray school just before a “critical” deadline.

In 2019, Ekopia Social Investments Limited, a Findhorn-based community benefit cooperative, purchased the main building as well as the surrounding grounds of Drumduan School and Kindergarten in Forres.

The step was necessary to raise funds but the ultimate goal has always been to return the assets to Drumduan’s stewardship.

The agreement with Ekopia five years ago included a buy-back clause to make this possible.

This clause allowed the school to repurchase the property at the original sale price, provided they gave notice before the fifth anniversary of the sale on December 12, 2024.

However, due to challenges such as restrictions during the Covid pandemic and other adverse circumstances, activating the buy-back was becoming “increasingly unattainable” according to the school.

But a large sum of money, donated by a generous benefactor who wishes to remain anonymous, has now allowed the school to exercise this option.

Drumduan officially informed Ekopia in writing on November 22 of their intention to proceed with the buy-back purchase. This is expected to be completed early next year.

Martin Kutternik, a trustee of Drumduan, said: “We are delighted. This generous donation brings Drumduan House and its immediate grounds back into the heart of our school community, just in time for our 40th-year anniversary next year.

“We now reclaim our independence and secure a brighter future.

“We are a pioneering education charity, serving local families and attracting families to the area from all over the UK and beyond.

“Due to the impending new 20 per cent VAT on all independent school fees, we still have some financial challenges to navigate.

“Having these assets returned to us relieves us of the need to pay rent, freeing up essential resources to support our daily operations and longer-term development.”

Drumduan includes a parent and child group, kindergarten, lower, middle and upper school.

Fasil Bogale, Ekopia chief executive officer, says the organisation is proud to have supported the school as it worked towards securing its future.

Mr Bogale added: “We extend our heartfelt thanks to our members, whose vision and investment made this possible.

“Ekopia congratulates Drumduan School on this extraordinary achievement and wishes them continued success as they move forward.”