Building progressing
Main structure completed
The new £ 25m Queen Margaret Academy took a major step closer to reality with the completion of the main new structure of the school.
It means the state- of- the- art school is well on track for opening its doors to pupils and staff in October 2019.
Built in the grounds of the existing academy, the new school is keenly anticipated as it’s set to not only transform learning and teaching, but will also significantly enhance facilities for the local community.
The new building will have space for up to 800 young people, with modern classrooms, massive games hall, two all- weather pitches, games courts and a host of other exciting facilities which are sure to impress pupils, staff and the wider public.
Kier Construction is building the school, which is being delivered by South Ayrshire Council in partnership with hub South West. The project is part of a £ 94million programme of works delivered across South Ayrshire with the aim of boosting education standards through targeted investment in schools and communities.
Councillor Peter Henderson, the council’s resources and performance portfolio holder, said: “Our new, extended and refurbished schools are completely transforming learning across South Ayrshire and the new Queen Margaret Academy is shaping up to do more of the same. We’re committed to creating modern learning environments that not only inspire children and young people, but provide an important hub and network for the local community.
“We want those attending our schools to achieve their full potential when they move on from school and our focus on providing the best education possible, with the best facilities, means we are on our way to achieving this ambition.
“Our schools always play a key role in local life so we’re ensuring that their excellent sports facilities can be accessed by the wider public. We also ensure there are areas of our schools that can be used by community groups and the new Queen Margaret Academy will be no different.”
Michael McBrearty, chief executive of delivery partner, hub South West Scotland, said: “The new school will be a fantastic contemporary and innovative learning environment that will create an abundance of opportunities and benefits to the entire community.”
Brian McQuade, managing director of Kier Construction Scotland & north- east England, said: “Up to 60 people have been on site during peak periods of activity and to date we have created one apprenticeship, seven work placements and three student summer intern placements. This has provided young local talent the opportunity to gain valuable experience working on a state- of- the- art building and a unique insight into the built environment and the diverse range of roles available.”
Oonagh Browne headteacher at Queen Margaret Academy said: “It’s exciting to see our new school taking shape. Parents, young people and staff were crucial in planning the facilities for our new school, so it’s very much their project and this only increases their anticipation”.
The Bishop of Galloway, Right Reverend William Nolan said: “While the ground works were taking place little seemed to be happening on site but in recent months the structure of the building has sprung up, giving a sense of excitement and anticipation as we look forward to the completion next year of a centre of learning that will inspire our young people.”
When the new school opens, the old building will be demolished and the site fully landscaped.