Irvine's newest school has now been open a month – with pupils and staff setting into their new surroundings.
Built by Robertson Construction North West, the school opened in August and as part of the council’s ambitious net-zero drive, is the first ‘Passivhaus’ school in the region.
Passivhaus Standard delivers buildings which provide a high level of comfort for occupants, while using very little energy for heating and cooling. The new school will use significantly less energy than a typical school building, resulting in lower carbon emissions, and lower energy bills.
Montgomerie Park Primary accommodates up to 342 pupils, plus an early learning and childcare facility with 32 places for three to five-year-olds, and 15 places for two-year-olds.
Quote:It’s such a great facility for us as a staff to teach in and also for the young people to learn in. Everyone is really happy and enjoying it and we will continue to strive to give the young people and their families the best environment possible. We’ve had a great first few weeks and it’s been lovely seeing the young people really embracing their new school.
Quote from:Montgomerie Park Head Teacher Fiona Smyth
Councillor Shaun Macaulay, Cabinet Member for Education, said:
“We are proud of this fantastic new school which marks a new chapter in the lives of the children and staff. It is an incredible facility and we are confident it will provide a learning and teaching environment of the very highest quality.”
Andy McLinden, Regional Managing Director, Robertson Construction Central West, said:
“It is with huge satisfaction that we deliver this project, not only a new high-quality school but a milestone in the national journey to net zero. In close collaboration with North Ayrshire Council, we have created a place that truly meets the needs and aspirations of the pupils, providing them with a nurturing educational environment where they can thrive.
“Beyond the creation of these state-of-the-art facilities, this project has also significantly contributed to community wealth building. We employed 54 local people, hosted 130 apprenticeship weeks on site, and supported employment programmes, ensuring that our work leaves a lasting legacy in the local area."
Initial work on the new school began in March 2023. It was built to rigorous energy efficiency standards and comprises 12 classrooms, early learning facilities, a gymnasium incorporating flexible performance areas, dining facilities, along with outdoor learning spaces including a seven-a-side all-weather pitch.