About Forres Academy
Forres Academy is the main state secondary school in Forres, Moray, but it doubles as a community events venue (www.ticketfairy.com ). The campus (Burdsyard Road, Forres IV36 1FG) opened in 1969 and was designed to blend with the landscape – low flat blocks set among mature trees and beside the Mosset Burn (www.ticketfairy.com ). A 1979–81 extension added a games hall, library and music rooms, and a new office/guidance wing arrived in 2013 (www.ticketfairy.com ). It continues a local tradition (Forres has had a high school since the 16th century) (www.ticketfairy.com ), giving the venue a special character – even the brightly-painted stairwells earned it the nickname “liquorice allsorts” (www.ticketfairy.com ) (www.ticketfairy.com ). The site also includes a swimming pool and fitness centre that are shared with the community (www.ticketfairy.com ), so families often visit Forres Academy for sports as well as cultural events.
Despite its size, this is not a large concert hall – the main assembly (games) hall seats only a few hundred people (www.ticketfairy.com ). The atmosphere is homey and local: generations of Forres families have attended school here, and the building has a down-to-earth charm rather than a commercial feel. In practical terms, the Academy functions like a community centre: it can host recitals, school plays and sports matches, but on a school-renovation scale rather than a city-theatre scale.
Events and Programming
As a school venue, Forres Academy’s schedule is centered on educational and community activities (www.ticketfairy.com ). You’ll find school plays, music concerts, talent shows and art exhibitions by students, as well as sports days or games in the gym (football, badminton, netball, etc.) (www.ticketfairy.com ). Throughout the year there are assemblies, awards evenings and family fun days. In short, many events are staged by the school or local clubs, so programming tends to change seasonally.
A highlight is the annual ceilidh , a classic Scottish music-and-dance event held in late autumn (www.ticketfairy.com ) (www.pressandjournal.co.uk ). This community ceilidh is famous locally: it features an evening of Highland tunes, dancing (jigs and reels), plus traditional food (stovies, oatcakes and a shared meal) (www.pressandjournal.co.uk ). Former pupils “come home” for it, and attendance is often higher than at other schools’ dances (www.ticketfairy.com ). The Academy’s pipe band frequently plays, and local musicians often guest (for example, past groups like Tweed or Ill Tricky have performed) (www.pressandjournal.co.uk ) (www.ticketfairy.com ). At the ceilidh, families may BYOB (bring your own bottle) to enjoy with the supplied refreshments (www.pressandjournal.co.uk ).
Other recurring events include term-end concerts (around Christmas and summer) and drama evenings (student musicals or theatre nights). The large sports hall sees inter-school matches and community sports club sessions. In recent years the Academy has also hosted more informal community events – for example, a fun “Nerf battle” game day in spring 2024 and an open youth sports day in autumn 2024 (www.ticketfairy.com ). Occasionally local charities or Parent Councils hold fundraisers or social gatherings in the hall.
The Academy isn’t typically a venue for commercial or touring acts, but small-scale local performances do pop up. For instance, the school formed a Brass Band for a spring 2022 concert, and jazz or folk ensembles will sometimes book the hall for one-off shows. Ticket prices for events are generally modest (the 2019 anniversary ceilidh charged £5 (www.ticketfairy.com )) or even free for school functions. In short, expect a friendly, community-centred programme – students and families are the main performers, though occasionally outside bands or ensembles appear on special nights.
Tickets and Booking
Most events at the Academy are free or inexpensive for local families, but any ticketed functions are handled in advance. There is no on-site box office or walk-up sales, so you should buy tickets ahead of time (www.ticketfairy.com ). The school and the Parent Council will announce sales via the Academy’s website, social media or announcements in the Forres Gazette (www.ticketfairy.com ). Tickets are usually sold by the organiser (often the school or a local group), either through the school office, a community shop or an online booking platform (www.ticketfairy.com ). For example, the Academy’s 50th-year ceilidh in 2019 had advance tickets (£5 each) sold online (www.ticketfairy.com ).
Because seating is limited (only a few hundred per event) (www.ticketfairy.com ), popular shows can sell out quickly. It’s best to buy early once dates are announced. If you miss the sale, you can try calling the school (01309 672271) or contacting the event organiser; however, rarely are tickets available at the door. For small school concerts or meetings, tickets may not be required at all – they’ll mention it in local listings or flyers. In general, keep an eye on the school’s newsletters, posters or newspaper adverts for precise booking instructions.
Seating and Layout
The Academy’s main event space is the large games/assembly hall. There is no fixed theatre auditorium – seating is arranged as needed. For concerts or stage shows, a temporary platform (stage) is set up at one end of the hall, and rows of chairs (borrowed or folding plastic chairs) are laid out on the flat floor (www.ticketfairy.com ). On the sides of the hall are retractable bleacher benches (installed in the 1981 extension) that can be pulled down for extra seats or pushed up for sports. In practice, seating is general admission, so early arrival often means the best choice of spot.
Which seats are best? In this kind of space, the centre-front area on the floor gives the clearest view and sound (www.ticketfairy.com ). Mid-level on the bleachers (around the middle rows) also offers a good angle on the stage. Toward the back of the hall (especially corners or behind speakers) the acoustics are slightly echoey, since the sports-hall-like reverberation carries more in those spots (www.ticketfairy.com ). For pleasant sound and sightlines, aim for anywhere on-axis near centre – noise from the PA or performers will reach those seats most directly.
Generally, you will sit on simple chairs or benches – there are no cushioned theatre seats. The floors are hard concrete or wood, so dress accordingly (comfortable, non-slip shoes are wise) (www.ticketfairy.com ). There are no VIP or raised balconies; all seating is floor/bleacher level. The hall is roomy but can be noisy when full, so even at the back you can follow along; just be careful of kids in front doing a jig at the ceilidh!
If a performance does not use chairs (say a dance or informal event), most people will stand on the flat space in front of the stage or use any remaining bleacher steps. In that case, there's ample standing room but no special vantage points beyond being closer to the action. All in all, the viewing experience is informal – bring a jacket in case the hall is cool, and settle in with the crowd rather than hunting a “perfect seat.”
Getting There and Parking
Forres Academy is located at the west end of Forres on Burdsyard Road (off Sanquhar Road). The address is often given as Forres IV36 1FG – you can put that into SatNav or maps. The school’s own car park sits right by the main entrance. Parking here is free for visitors , though it can fill up on popular-event nights. If the Academy lot is full, nearby alternatives include the Forres Area Community Centre car park (a short walk) or supermarket car parks on Sanquhar Road – just be mindful of private parking rules. Street parking on Burdsyard Road is limited and usually signed “school only,” so it’s best to use the official lots.
Public transport: Forres has good bus and train links. Stagecoach bus route No.12 (Forres ↔ Elgin) has a stop literally at the Academy entrance – look for the “Forres, at Academy” stop (www.ticketfairy.com ). Other local buses (10, 25, long-distance coaches) stop at Sanquhar Road in town centre; from there it’s a 10–15 minute walk along Sanquhar/Burdsyard Road to the school (www.ticketfairy.com ). The nearest train station (“Forres” on the Aberdeen–Inverness line) is about one mile east (roughly a 20-minute walk). From the station you can take a local taxi or the No. 12 bus from the town centre to reach the Academy (www.ticketfairy.com ).
For those dropped off or coming by taxi, the school’s driveway allows easy passenger exit near the main doors. (Rideshares in Moray are run by local taxi firms – book ahead to guarantee a late ride.) If you’re driving in from nearby towns, note that the A96 from Inverness or Aberdeen meets Forres right at the Academy, so it’s a straightforward turn west into Burdsyard Road. During busy events, security staff or volunteers may guide cars into parking. Plan to arrive a bit early: local roads and parking quickly get busy once shows start.
Inside the Venue
When you arrive, staff or parent volunteers typically check tickets at the doorway. Security is very light (unlike a club or big arena) – you might need to scribble your name on a sign-in sheet or show a pass. Bag checks are not routine for small school events, though very large gatherings may have a quick pat-down “just in case” (www.ticketfairy.com ). Overall, the atmosphere inside is informal and friendly – think of it like attending a community hall meeting or a family gathering.
There is no formal cloakroom or coat check . Guests usually hang coats on spare chairs or have them held by volunteers at the door (www.ticketfairy.com ). Likewise, there is no on-site café or canteen. You may bring your own small snacks or bottled water into the hall, but heavy food or alcohol shouldn’t be carried in unless the event permits it (for example, the ceilidh provides refreshments and is BYOB for drinks (www.pressandjournal.co.uk )). Many people eat before coming; nearby cafés and shops can be visited as needed. If you do bring drinks, avoid glass – sealed plastic or metal bottles are safest (www.ticketfairy.com ).
The hall’s lighting is utilitarian: basic fluorescent tubes or LED bulbs. For any stage show, local technicians hang a few spotlights and run portable PA speakers from the ceiling or tripods (www.ticketfairy.com ). Do not expect theatrical lighting rigs – it will be bright white light on performers. Similarly, sound is handled through a simple PA system (often using the school’s mics). The hall has no special acoustic treatment (it can be quite reverberant like a gym). Loud music can echo, so act accordingly if you have hard of hearing – the best seats near the front help here. Often at larger events, organisers will bring in extra speakers for volume, but for most school concerts the built-in equipment suffices.
Facilities: The main foyer and hall have restrooms (toilets) including one-disabled WC (www.ticketfairy.com ). These are basic school bathrooms (clean and functional). There is no public Wi-Fi network, so you should rely on your own mobile data for internet access – fortunately central Forres has good signal strength and the school’s location is no worse than nearby streets (www.ticketfairy.com ). (Inside very old wings coverage can dip, but generally your phone will work.) There is no charging outlet or station for visitors, so ensure phones or camera batteries are charged before arrival (www.ticketfairy.com ).
Entry is through the main front doors. If the event is in summer, you may want layers – the hall heating is on for winter events, but if the doors open often or it’s a crowded dance, the air can feel cool (www.ticketfairy.com ) (www.ticketfairy.com ). Dress is entirely casual, aside from ceilidh nights where guests often wear smart-casual or traditional kilts and tartans (www.ticketfairy.com ). Many people arrive in jeans or everyday clothes and mingle in the foyer until doors open. For dances, sturdy footwear is helpful (non-slip shoes if you plan to dance) (www.ticketfairy.com ). High heels or fancy shoes are not practical on the hard floor (www.ticketfairy.com ). In short, come relaxed and dressed for comfort.
Menus and drink: The Academy does not sell food or drink during typical events (except occasional home-bake tea tables at community fundraisers). You are welcome to bring bottled water or a snack. Hot drinks (tea/coffee) might be provided at coffee breaks or ceilidh socials. Alcohol is normally only at licensed evening events – often the ceilidh allows self-catered drink (BYO) while snack food is laid on (www.pressandjournal.co.uk ). Always check the specific event's notes: some school concerts are family-friendly (no alcohol permitted) while parent-run events may include it. If drinks are served, responsibility rules apply (no under-18 drinking, etc.) – the event organiser will have licences if needed.
Personal items: For security, bring only what you need. Small bags and pocket items are fine; large backpacks or luggage are discouraged and may be refused entry (www.ticketfairy.com ). Leave valuables at home or keep them with you. There is no cloakroom to store bags or coats, so keep everything with your seat or on a lap. Photography for personal use is generally allowed (phones or compact cameras) as long as you don’t disturb the performers. Avoid video recording or flash photography during a show without permission (www.ticketfairy.com ) (www.ticketfairy.com ). In all, the venue is laid-back: it’s like attending a local school function rather than a concert arena, so common sense and courtesy prevail.
Nearby Amenities
Forres Academy sits just outside the town centre. About a 10–15 minute walk (or a few minutes by taxi), you’ll find the heart of Forres with its shops, cafés and eating places. East Church Street and the High Street area have a handful of pubs and restaurants: for example, the Mosset Tavern is a popular pub/restaurant on the High Street, and “The Fork Bistro” (a modern British menu) is also nearby. There are several cosy cafés and bakeries in town – Maplefields (a bakery-restaurant), The Bakehouse, and The Coffee Cup – where you can grab a light meal or coffee before an afternoon show. Fish-and-chip shops, takeaways (Indian, Chinese, pizza) and a pub or two line the edges of town.
If you prefer to dine right before a night event, booking a table is wise. Options include pub food at one of the local inns (like the Highlander Inn on the High Street), or Indian cuisine at restaurants on East Church St/Elgin Rd. Forres also has several supermarkets (Tesco, Aldi, Lidl) within a short drive if you need to pick up snacks or water. Hotel choices in town include the Railway Hotel (next to the train station) and a few B&B houses; the nearest large hotel is the Dallas Dhu (a former distillery) a few miles east on the A96.
Transport after events: Note that Forres is a small town, so public transit ends early. The last Stagecoach buses on weekdays often leave town by about 7–8pm, and Scottish rail trains run until around late evening (check ScotRail schedules for times). Late-night taxis are the safer option for returning (local taxi firms can be booked in advance). If you drive, remember that on dark winter evenings the roads can be quiet – leave a bit of extra time for snow or fog if visiting in winter. Overall, arriving at the Academy an hour before the event start can give you a leisurely meal ahead of time and enough time to park, locate the hall entrance, and settle in without rush.
What Makes This Venue Special
Forres Academy is special because it’s a living part of the town’s history and community. Unlike a purpose-built nightclub or theatre, it’s the young people’s school by day and a communal hall by evening – giving it a warm, familiar vibe. The building itself (with its sunken courtyards, trees and the Mosset Burn running nearby) is architecturally interesting for a school, and the colorful stairwells have become a local talking point (www.ticketfairy.com ) (www.ticketfairy.com ). Locals often fondly recall attending assemblies here themselves. Its long tradition (over 50 years in this building) ties multiple generations together – siblings, parents and children may all have memories of the place.
Culturally, the Academy is a hub for Highland heritage in the area. The annual ceilidh at the Academy is more than “just” a school dance; it’s a town event that keeps traditional music and dancing alive. Former students tell stories of returning home from abroad or other cities just to join the ceilidh (www.ticketfairy.com ). The school’s own pipe band – started in the mid-2000s – also brings pride by performing at events across Moray (including the Forres Highland Games and other festivals), showcasing local talent. Basically, the Academy’s evening events feel like community family reunions, not generic concerts.
Many visitors note how the venue’s unpretentious nature is actually refreshing. Artists and audience members “love having festivals in a neighbourly space, where you can chat to performers during breaks,” says one local organiser. Even the neighbouring playing fields and swimming pool mean that the Academy grounds are active beyond school hours – joggers use the track, swimmers use the pool, and occasionally clubs hold clubs practice. In short, Forres Academy is special for its community feel, its upkeep of local tradition, and its role as a true multi-use school-cum-venue in the heart of a small Scottish town.
Visitor Tips and Information
Accessibility: The venue is fully accessible. All public event areas (main hall, foyer, sports hall) are on ground level with ramps or flat access (www.ticketfairy.com ). There are lifts between floors. Accessible (disabled) toilets are provided near the hall. If you need assistance on arrival, staff or volunteers can help you find seating or enter from the bottom floor (www.ticketfairy.com ).Bring essentials: You will need your ticket (print or digital) and some form of ID if age-restricted events are involved. Carry cash or card for any minor sales – some school events only take cash for teas/raffles (www.ticketfairy.com ). An umbrella may be useful if it’s raining; the front paved area is open. Pack your phone or camera charger if you think you’ll need it (remember there’s no public charging available) (www.ticketfairy.com ). Bags and belongings: Security is informal, but for convenience bring only a small bag or backpack (www.ticketfairy.com ). Large bags or suitcases are not allowed in the hall. If it’s cold, you’ll likely carry your coat into the hall – since no cloakroom exists (www.ticketfairy.com ), make sure it fits on your lap or over your chair. Keep valuables with you as there is no secure storage (the venue is well supervised, but it’s best not to leave wallets/mobile in a coat on a chair). Dress code: Most events are casual. Jeans or smart-casual daywear are fine. The hall is heated but can feel cool near doors or in winter, so bringing a light jacket is wise (www.ticketfairy.com ). For ceilidhs or special dances, guests often wear kilts or tartan, and a sport jacket or collared shirt (a “smart casual” look) is common (www.ticketfairy.com ) – but this is never required. Avoid very high heels or new white shoes (chalk can be dropped on floors). Food and drink: Plan to eat or have a drink before reaching the venue, as nothing permanent is sold onsite. Many visitors grab coffee, a sandwich or take-away meal in town beforehand. Small snacks, water bottles or a travel mug of coffee are welcome in the hall. Hot meals are usually only provided at events (tea/coffee rounds or buffet dinners at ceilidhs). If the event is licensed, you may be allowed to bring your own wine or beer – check the notice. Otherwise, soft drinks will likely be on sale from a refreshment stand run by parents or a local charity. Photography: Taking photos or videos for personal use is generally allowed (www.ticketfairy.com ). However, be considerate: do not use flash during performances (it can startle dancers or musicians), and never film or photograph other audience members without permission. Professional cameras (large tripods, video cameras) may require the organiser’s OK, especially for student performances (www.ticketfairy.com ) (www.ticketfairy.com ). Children and age: The Academy’s public events are mostly family friendly. Children of all ages are welcome at school concerts and the ceilidh, but any event serving alcohol will enforce the usual age limits. Typically a ceilidh or musical is open to all, whereas a late-evening party or adult workshop might be 16+ or 18+. Children under 16 must attend with an adult at these school premises (www.ticketfairy.com ). If in doubt, check the event details – many flyers will state “all ages welcome” or give an age limit. Smoking policy: Forres Academy is a non-smoking campus by law. This means no smoking or vaping inside the building or anywhere on the school property (www.ticketfairy.com ). If you wish to smoke (or use an e-cigarette), step outside the school boundary – typically people head to a designated spot at the far side of the car park (www.ticketfairy.com ). Arrival time: Doors usually open about 15–30 minutes before show time (www.ticketfairy.com ). Aim to arrive early enough to park and walk in comfortably. For an evening concert (7 or 7:30pm start), being there around 6:45pm is wise. If it’s a big event (like the ceilidh), getting there 30–45 minutes early ensures a good seat and avoids last-minute rush. The foyer is small, so late arrivals may have to queue outside briefly. Accessibility Extras: Wheelchair users can enter via the ramped door on the ground floor. There are dedicated spaces at the front of the hall. If needed, organisers can reserve a companion seat next to you – just email the school in advance or ask staff on arrival. An auditorium assistance dog or carer is always welcome. Hearing loops are not installed, so those with hearing aids should sit closer to the front for best sound pickup.
How can I purchase tickets for events at Forres Academy?
Tickets (when required) are sold in advance by the event organiser (
www.ticketfairy.com ). Look for announcements via the Academy’s website, social media or local news (e.g. the
Forres Gazette ). Tickets may be available from the school office, a nearby community shop, or an online booking link. There is no on-site box office, so plan to buy ahead of time (
www.ticketfairy.com ).
Do I need to pay to attend school events, and how much are tickets?
Many Academy events are free or low-cost. School concerts, plays and sports events often have no charge, as they’re fundraisers or open to families. For ticketed events like the ceilidh or special concerts, prices are usually budget-friendly. For example, the 50
th anniversary ceilidh sold tickets for about £5 each (
www.ticketfairy.com ). Check each event’s listing for the exact cost and where to pay.
Is there a box office at the venue or can I buy tickets at the door?
No. Forres Academy has no walk-up box office or door sales. All tickets are pre-sold by the organisers (
www.ticketfairy.com ). Children’s shows or school assemblies may not require tickets at all. If in doubt, contact the school office or check the official event announcement to see how to obtain tickets in advance.
Where exactly is Forres Academy located?
The Academy is at Burdsyard Road, Forres IV36 1FG (
www.ticketfairy.com ). It’s reached by heading west out of Forres town centre on the B9016 (Sanquhar Road) and turning onto Burdsyard Road. Follow signs for the Academy or the large school buildings. On maps or GPS search for “Forres Academy, IV36 1FG” to get directions.
Is there parking available, and is it free?
Yes. The Academy has its own car park beside the main entrance, and parking there is free for visitors. There are no fees charged by the school. If that fills up, additional parking can usually be found at the nearby community centre or supermarkets (short walk away) (
www.ticketfairy.com ). Just obey any posted signs. Do not park on double yellow lines on the roads. During busy events, volunteers may guide cars to parking spaces, so arriving early is recommended.
Can I get to Forres Academy by bus or train?
Yes. Stagecoach bus No. 12 (Forres↔Elgin) stops at “Forres, at Academy” – this stop is essentially at the school’s entrance (
www.ticketfairy.com ). Other local buses (including No.10, 25, etc.) stop on Sanquhar Road in town; from there it’s a 10–15 minute walk west along Sanquhar/Burdsyard Road to the school (
www.ticketfairy.com ). By train, Forres station is on the Aberdeen–Inverness line, about 1 mile east (20 minutes’ walk). You can also take a taxi or catch a local bus into town and transfer.
Which seats are best in the hall, and is seating general admission?
All seating is unreserved on event nights – it’s first-come, first-served. A temporary stage is set up at one end of the main hall for performances, with rows of chairs on the floor and bleacher benches on the sides (
www.ticketfairy.com ). The best views are usually centre-front on the ground or around mid-height on the bleachers, where the sound and sightlines are clearest (
www.ticketfairy.com ). The back corners and far sides tend to have more echo or slight shadows. So if possible, sit near the middle front. (For casual or standing-room events, people simply gather on the floor in front of the stage. (
www.ticketfairy.com ))
Is Forres Academy wheelchair accessible?
Yes. The main event spaces (hall, foyer, sports hall) are all on the ground floor level with ramp or flat access (
www.ticketfairy.com ). Ramps and lifts connect the ground floor to any upper levels. There are accessible toilets close to the hall. Wheelchair users can be accommodated with space near the front. If you have any special needs (e.g. a companion or reserved spot), it’s best to email or call the organiser in advance, or ask the school office – staff will be happy to assist on arrival (
www.ticketfairy.com ).
Are children allowed at Academy events?
Yes – in fact, most school events are family-friendly. Children of all ages are welcome at concerts, plays and the ceilidh (
www.ticketfairy.com ). However, note any age advice on the event flyer: some late-night or licensed events might be restricted (for example, “12+” or “18+ only”). In general, events are geared towards youngsters unless stated otherwise. Children under 16 should attend with an adult chaperone on the school premises (
www.ticketfairy.com ).
Can I bring my own food or drink inside?
There is no on-site café or bar, so attendees often bring a bottle of water or a small snack to an event (
www.ticketfairy.com ). Hot meals are not usually available (except sometimes a tea/coffee service run by volunteers). At some events like the ceilidh, visitors are allowed to bring their own alcoholic drinks (the organisers provide food) (
www.pressandjournal.co.uk ). Usually, outside food or sealed drink is fine. Avoid glass bottles or large coolers. If you’re hungry before a show, try one of the nearby cafés or pubs, or grab something to eat on the way.
Is there a coat check or any storage for belongings?
No formal cloakroom exists. Most people just keep coats and jackets on the backs of their chairs (
www.ticketfairy.com ). Volunteers sometimes help by watching over coats at the door, but nothing is locked down. Personal items (bags, phones, wallets) should be kept with you. Avoid bringing large luggage – as noted, keep belongings in a small bag or pocket for ease.
Is smoking or vaping allowed on site?
No. Forres Academy is a non-smoking campus by law (
www.ticketfairy.com ). That includes cigarettes, e-cigarettes and all vaping devices. Smoking or vaping is only permitted outside the school grounds (for example, at the far end of the parking area or on adjacent public paths) (
www.ticketfairy.com ). Please be sure to walk off campus to smoke.
Can I take photos or record the event with my camera or phone?
You may take photos or video for your own private use, as long as you’re not disrupting the performance (
www.ticketfairy.com ) (
www.ticketfairy.com ). In practice, smartphone snapshots are fine. Do not use flash during shows (it can disturb performers) and be respectful of others – don’t film audience members without permission. Professional cameras and filming equipment are usually only allowed if the organisers have approved it. If the event has press or a video crew, you’ll know in advance; otherwise a friendly ask to the event staff is best.
What should I wear to an event at Forres Academy?
Generally, dress is casual. Jeans, sweaters and everyday wear are perfectly fine. For ceilidhs or community dances, many people choose smart-casual attire (kilts or tartan skirts are common for Scots dancing nights) (
www.ticketfairy.com ). In winter bring a warm layer – the hall heating is on, but the temperature can drop if it’s cold outside (
www.ticketfairy.com ). Above all, wear comfortable shoes (avoid slippery heels), since you may be sitting or dancing on a hard gym floor (
www.ticketfairy.com ) (
www.ticketfairy.com ).
Can I book the Academy hall for a private event or sports match?
Yes, but only through the proper channels. The school’s halls and pitches can be hired out for approved events (e.g. community sports, clubs or meetings) (
www.ticketfairy.com ). To do this, you must contact Moray Council’s facilities team or the school administration. Evening and weekend hires are possible when the school timetable allows, but availability is limited. All lettings follow Moray Council’s sports and community facilities policy. In other words, you can rent the space, but it needs to be arranged formally in advance.
What regular events or traditions should I know about?
The most famous tradition is the annual autumn ceilidh – a school dance and Scottish music night. It’s been a local fixture for decades (
www.pressandjournal.co.uk ). Other regular highlights include term-end concerts and dramas by pupils. Each year the Parent Council hosts a winter ceilidh (late November) with live bands and dancing, and a smaller spring ceilidh or social. Sports day (usually late spring) is also a yearly event at the Academy’s ovals. In short, look for “Christmas concert”, “Spring concert”, “Autumn ceilidh” or similar on the school calendar – those happen almost every year.
Are there amenities like Wi-Fi and toilets available?
Yes. Public restrooms (male, female and disabled washrooms) are located just off the main hall (
www.ticketfairy.com ). There is no public Wi-Fi network, so your smartphone or tablet will use cellular data if you need internet (
www.ticketfairy.com ). Cell coverage in Forres is generally good, although you may find weaker signal inside old buildings. No café or vending machines are onsite, so plan accordingly.
