History of Mearns Academy

Mearns Academy dates back to as far as 1895. Our history below describes the changes the school has gone through over the years.

1895	Laurencekirk Public School becomes a centre for Secondary Education. (Free, compulsory education for all local 5-13 year olds. Secondary pupils still fee-paying).
1912	New Science, Domestic Science and Woodwork rooms added to main (north) site.
1918	Education Act  Free secondary education now available.
1920	Laurencekirk Public School based on three sites  (the present north site, the former Episcopal School, and the Infant School).
1923	Laurencekirk Public School officially recognised as a Higher Grade School.
1934	New buildings opened on the main street. (Five classrooms, two staffrooms, clinic).
1937	Four more new classrooms opened, Gymnasium added.
1939	School renamed Laurencekirk Junior Secondary school. (Pupils who passed a qualifying exam at age 12 would usually go to a Senior Secondary school).
1948	House system introduced (Conveth, Johnston, Thornton).
1954	New Science and Homecraft rooms added.
1966	Further extension to the school, new wing added, and dining hall.
1972	Comprehensive Education system introduced.
1974	School granted Senior Secondary Level status.
1977	(June) School officially recognised as providing education through to sixth year.
1977	(November) School renamed Mearns Academy � Rector to be official title of head teacher of now separate secondary department.