The Mortlach Primary School building on York Street, Dufftown, Moray, was built in 1902. It originally served as the public school for the Parish of Mortlach.

When Speyside High School was built in 1968 in Aberlour, the York Street building was repurposed fully as a primary school. 

The school has long served children from Dufftown and the surrounding rural communities, providing education from nursery age through primary levels. The Mortlach Primary school building is also home to Mortlach Nursery, which is managed by Mrs Fraser. Also within the school grounds is The Cabin, which is managed by Mrs Durno, and provides nursery places as well. 

Mortlach Primary School is part of the Speyside Associated Schools Group (ASG). Within this group are Tomintoul Primary, Glenlivet Primary, Craigellachie Primary, Aberlour Primary, Knockando Primary and Rothes Primary, as well as Speyside High School. The majority of our P7 pupils transition to Speyside High School at the end of their primary education. The Speyside ASG staff work closely together sharing good practice, moderating outcomes and developing ASG level priorities, which ensures that pupils benefit from a great educational experience.

Within the Mortlach building are seven classrooms, a nursery space, a library/general purpose room, nurture areas, canteen and a large hall. Around the building there are multiple playgrounds, including an Eco-Garden, growing area, play equipment, grassy areas and concrete areas. The school also has easy access to 'The School Park', a large field with plenty of space for sports and outdoor learning.

Mortlach Primary School is a central part of the local community, recognised for its inclusive events and strong involvement of staff and the parent council. The Parent Council consists of parents/carers from all classes across the school and works closely with the school on identified improvement priorities and to support the implementation of a wide range of experiences.

In 2024, the school was shortlisted for a “Moray Heroes School of the Year” award, reflecting its positive reputation in the region.

Today, Mortlach Primary School continues to be a hive of learning. The school prides itself on its inclusive practice and has recently developed the 'Thistle Work' room, which is run by a Pupil Support Worker, who supports pupils with targeted learning inputs, provides a quiet space for pupils to regulate and learn, and also allows a safe space for pupils who require one to one or small group interventions to remove barriers to learning.

The staff team at Mortlach Primary School are highly skilled practitioners, with a range of backgrounds and experiences in educational settings in Scotland, and further afield. This diverse skill set allows Mortlach to support its pupils to thrive both in their academic progress as well as with their social and emotional skills.

The local community is at the heart of everything done at Mortlach Primary School. Pupils are encouraged to explore the local, and wider environments, and engage in learning activities with partners from within the community. Throughout the school year families and community members are invited to attend a wide range of events at the school including school performances, celebration events and sports events.