As part of our ongoing commitment to community engagement and education, we were delighted to visit Banchory Primary School to spend time with two of their Primary Six classes.

David Smart, CEO of Leys Estate Group, led a session focused on how Banchory has evolved over the past 50 years — a chance for pupils to reflect on the changes in their town and how communities grow over time.

The visit focused on encouraging discussion, sparking curiosity, and helping young people think critically about their surroundings. Pupils then worked in groups on a creative challenge: deciding where they would place a new school in Banchory. The exercise promoted teamwork, communication, and thoughtful problem-solving, with a wide variety of impressive ideas shared and reasons given.

At the end of the visit, the Estate was gifted a handmade bird box from the children — a meaningful gesture that will be proudly installed on our land around Banchory Business Centre.

We are proud to support local learning and thank the staff and pupils of Banchory Primary for their warm hospitality and enthusiastic participation.