South Lanarkshire is located in the central belt of Scotland and straddles the upper reaches of the River Clyde, extending into the Southern Uplands. In population terms, South Lanarkshire, with an estimated 307,670 people, is the fifth largest local authority in Scotland. Covering 1,772 square kilometres, the area encompasses a diverse mix of urban and rural environments. There are 151 publicly funded schools, including 125 primaries, 17 secondaries and 9 special schools. 44,141 pupils attend these schools, including 23,915 primary pupils, 19,757 secondary pupils and 469 special needs pupils.