School fit for a Queen
Headteacher Oonagh Browne said the layout of the new £ 25 million Queen Margaret Academy will make it easier to keep an eye on her pupils.
The stunning high school boasts balconies overlooking open areas with children going about their school day.
The pupils were welcomed to their new secondary by a bagpiper on frosty Monday morning.
They marched in the main entrance while teachers watched the celebratory procession from a raised platform.
Ms Browne said: “I think the facilities are just exceptional. You can’t compare it to the old building.
“My worry was the sense of community might change but I think it is even better here. “People are talking and you can see the kids all the time.
“In the old building there were three different areas. It is hard not to see every child here. You can be there in the morning checking in the kids. It is just great being able to see all the staff every day.”
The architecture promotes open space, which means everyone gets a peek at each other regularly as they move about the building.
A gym, automotive engineering workshop, sports courts and music rooms packed full of instruments and recording equipment are just a few of
Ms Browne said the oratory and a games area were her favourite rooms.
Sitting in her office with a view of the Carrick Hills, she said: “The oratory is at the heart of the school. The children designed the stained glass for the cross.”
Commenting on the children’s reaction to the new school, she said: “I think they were overwhelmed at first. There was a quietness when they came in on Thursday and Friday but now they are excited to be in the space. They love it.”
A number of areas are open to the public and there is a separate reception area for people to use.
The replacement secondary has been built beside the now vacated former building on Dalmellington Road.
It has room for up to 800 pupils but currently has a roll of 600.