Update on Elmwood

A key part of SRUC’s distinctive tertiary model is our regional presence, including in Fife. However, it is also vital that our teaching is delivered in a way that is financially sustainable, particularly when SRUC – like a number of education institutions throughout the country – is facing significant financial challenges.

As previously stated, we are committed to Elmwood but, in recent years, the campus has run at a loss, with the structurally compromised main building previously costing up to £1.2 million a year to run.

To ensure a sustainable campus model that is fit for purpose, we have begun a consultation with a number of Elmwood staff on a proposal to close the main building on a permanent basis.

Under this proposal, Elmwood House and our Horticulture facilities will remain open. We would continue to offer Gamekeeping courses but, unfortunately, we would no longer be able to deliver Animal Care courses at Elmwood.

We do not anticipate that any current students will be affected by this proposed change, but any student who has not fully completed their one-year programme by the end of the 2024-25 academic year will be supported to achieve this. 

Animal Care will still be offered as a subject at SRUC and those wishing to progress to the next level of study will have the opportunity to do so at another campus.

The proposals will enable SRUC to maintain its presence in Cupar and continue to offer options for in-person learning in this region in a financially sustainable way.

Professor Wayne Powell, Principal and Chief Executive

Posted by SRUC on 25/02/2025