Young people getting ready to move to the new Ayr Academy have been given a behind the scenes tour of the new school along with elected members and senior officials from South Ayrshire Council. A series of visits is being arranged to ensure staff and students get to know the building ahead of the big move in August.
With the exterior of the building now complete, the group is one of the first to see inside the school and the young people from S1, S2 and S6 were impressed with how quickly the classrooms and other spaces are being fitted out.
The £25million project is part of a £94million pipeline of works being delivered across South Ayrshire in the next 18 months, with the aim of enhancing standards through targeted investment.
Construction of the school at Ayr's Craigie Estate started in January last year and once complete, it will have space for up to 1,000 pupils, and will feature sports pitches, a multi-use hall, two gyms and a fitness/movement room.
The school is being built by Kier Construction and is being delivered by South Ayrshire Council in partnership with SWHub.
Councillor Margaret Toner, South Ayrshire Council's Portfolio Holder for Lifelong Learning, said: "It was exciting to look around the building and see just how much progress has been made in the last few months. The new learning spaces will be inspirational and I have no doubt the young people and wider community will enjoy the new sports facilities."
"The new school is in an ideal location and those attending the academy will have additional educational opportunities right on their doorstep. The new learning environment will help raise standards and support young people go on to positive destinations when they leave."
Lyndsay McRoberts, Executive Headteacher at Ayr Academy said, "There is a real buzz among young people and staff as we move closer to the completion date. Everyone is keen to have a look around the school and reports so far have been extremely positive. Judging by the level of enthusiasm, our new school is set to make a big difference and transform the way we work."
The youngsters being shown round were certainly impressed:
Stacy Cuthbert (12) from S1 said "It was better than I imagined, the dance studio is going to be great"
Logan Hughes (13) from S2 said "I am looking forward to trying out the new games hall."
Ellie Easdale (12) from S1 said "It was brilliant seeing round the school for the first time, my friends can't wait to see it too"
Rylee Hobbs (13) from S2 liked the green copper cladding on the outside of the school, he said "The school looks great and really modern"