Plans to merge four small schools in Skye will be thrashed out at a court hearing on the island today and tomorrow.
Highland Council approved proposals to close Edinbane, Knockbreck and Struan and merge them in a new building in Dunvegan in March.
But the decision was refused by the School Closure Review Panel which said the authority had failed to consult fully with locals.
It was the first ever ruling by the newly created panel, who consider proposals for schools if they are called in by Scottish ministers.
Parents of children at the small rural schools in the north-west of the island had campaigned against the merger – saying it would be “detrimental” to the pupils and teaching staff.
Now, the Panel’s decision has been challenged by the council, which will set out its case in a two day hearing at Portree Sheriff Court, starting this morning.
The local authority believe that the body “exceeded its jurisdiction” in reaching its decision, and will set out a case that the judgement erred in law.
Bill Alexander, the council’s director of care and learning, said: “We will argue this case on points of law, as Highland Council believes that the School Closure Review Panel has misinterpreted the legislation and acted beyond its powers.
“We have appealed on behalf of children and families in north-west Skye.
“We seek to build a state of the art new school for these communities, that will provide enhanced facilities, educational benefit and sustainable provision for years to come.”
Patricia Quigley, chairwoman of the School Closure Review Panel, said: “Following a thorough review of the information before the School Closure Review Panel, the panel concluded that Highland Council had not fulfilled its obligations under the Schools (Consultation) (Scotland) Act 2010.
“Accordingly, the Panel refused consent to Highland Council’s proposal to close the four primary schools and related nursery classes in north Skye.
“Highland Council appealed the panel’s decision, and an advocate will appear on behalf of the panel as defender at the hearing on Monday and Tuesday.”
A full written judgement is expected to be issued in about three months time following the court hearing.