A BRAND new secondary school is in its final stages of development as it gets ready to open its doors after the summer holidays.

The new two-storey Boclair Academy in Bearsden will provide 1050 pupils with a state-of-the-art learning environment and will feature a large atrium, flexible learning zones, performance spaces and dining areas. 

Once the building is complete, work will start on improved outdoor facilities alongside a fully integrated landscape design which will include car and cycle parking bays.

The £40.9million project is being delivered by East Dunbartonshire Council in partnership SCAPE Construction Framework and contractor Wates Construction Limited/McLaughlin & Harvey Construction Limited. 

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Council leader Gordon Low, who visited the site to see the progress and meet with Council partners, the head teacher and some of the pupils who will be moving into the new school in August, said: "Despite the challenges faced as a result of the pandemic, a number of our teams - including major assets and education -  have worked hard with our partners to ensure the building will be ready for opening in the new term, which is a remarkable achievement. 

"The young people I met today are clearly very excited about the new building, particularly as they, and the school community as a whole, have been so involved in the design process.

"They have enjoyed seeing their visions and ideas for the school come to fruition during the construction phase."

He continued: "Not only is the structure of the building designed to enhance the learning experience for pupils, Boclair Academy is situated on a beautiful site and the new school layout makes the very most of the surrounding landscape. 

"I’m looking forward to returning when it opens in August to see this inspiring building full of students and teachers benefiting from this bright and stimulating learning environment."

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Headteacher Douglas Brown said: "This is such an exciting time for everyone at Boclair Academy and we can't wait to move across to our new building which is simply stunning.

"We feel like we have been involved every step of the way from the early discussions about layout and design, throughout the whole construction process.

"The students asked for light, height and space and that is exactly what we've got.

"When we close the doors on the old school for the last time it will be the end of an era with lots of happy memories but we are charging forward to a bright future in our wonderful new home."

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Pupil Harli, who will be starting S6 in the new school, said: "The difference between both buildings is huge and it is easy to see how the modern, bright building is going to be a great environment in which to learn.

"I love sports and dancing and can't wait to use the new facilities which look amazing.

"We have a modern dance studio with all the equipment we need.

"I love all the huge windows in the new school which give it such a light and airy feel.

"Roll on August."

McLaughlin & Harvey framework director Chris Boyle added: "We’re delighted to be working with the Council on this outstanding state-of-the-art educational building that will benefit over 1000 young people in East Dunbartonshire. 

"We’re looking forward to welcoming them to their new school."