News

Berwickshire High School, the first of Scottish Borders Council’s three new high schools opened today (24 February 2009), two years and 25 days after the PPP contracts were finalised with the Scottish Borders Education Partnership (SBEP). SBEP is a partnership consisting of lead sponsor Bilfinger Berger Project Investments and main contractor Graham Construction.

Headteacher Rob Kelly, received the keys for the new school from SBEP’s General Manager James Aberdein. Rob Kelly said, “Every school reflects the era it was built and our new school is very much a 21st century building. Our staff, our students and our community are really ecited about the opportunities the new school will bring. I am confident it will provide an inspiration for all.”

James Aberdein, General Manager for the 3 High Schools project, said “We are delighted for the students, staff and the wider community, who will also have the opportunity to use these fantastic facilities. The schools provide a great environment in which the young people of the region can learn and develop their skills and knowledge. My involvement started before the construction work commenced and it is great to have seen the project from start to finish: the highs and lows and the buildings taking shape over the last two and half years. Now they are finished, I am particularly looking forward to seeing the students’ reactions when they walk through the door.”

Scottish Borders Council's Director of Education, Glenn Rodger said: "I am absolutely delighted with the new schools. I have been involved in the project from the beginning and have seen the schools develop from the planning stage, through construction to where we are now. The finished schools match my original expectations and aspirations for the project. I think it will be wonderful environment for children to learn and our staff to work in. I hope that local people take full advantage of the excellent facilities as we really want the schools to be an asset for the whole community.”

Facilities for available for the community to use include indoor and outdoor sports pitches, drama and music studios, learning resource centres, food technology rooms and much more.

The next school to open is Eyemouth High School on 6 March 2008. The third school, Earlston High School, is due for handover later in this summer and when complete all three will be amongst the most environmentally advanced schools built in Scotland.