On 4 August 2017, the science and maths building, known as the SAM block was handed over to WS Stirlands for a multi-million-pound redesign and rebuild project.

Built in 1974, the SAM block was built as a direct result of the raising of the school leaving age from 15 to 16 and the associated increase in pupils. The building design is known as a SCOLA construction and similar buildings were constructed throughout the country as a quick and affordable way of meeting the needs of school expansions.

SCOLA buildings were easy to construct but have many inherent flaws. Poor insulation, over glazing and inadequate heating, makes for uncomfortable working environments. This along with water penetration, asbestos materials throughout and failing tile cladding on the outside makes the building very expensive to maintain.

The latest redesign and rebuild recognises that the building is not fit for the needs of modern teaching and will put right many of the existing flaws.

The rebuild project will take approximately 12 months to complete and will involve the complete demolition of the roof, internal walls, heating & electrics, external cladding, and windows. The newly rebuilt building will include:

  • New roof, windows and external cladding – all with much improved thermal efficiency
  • New heating & power, LED lighting and new fire safety systems
  • New internal room layouts
  • 9 new science laboratories
  • 2 new science preparation rooms
  • 7 new general classrooms
  • 1 new ICT room
  • New toilet facilities
  • Offices and staff facilities.
  • The building will be fully accessible on the ground floor.

As part of the enabling works for the project, the school has also carried out the following works to ensure the school can continue to operate effectively whilst the building is closed.

  • Created new offices out of  storage and workshop areas for pastoral staff in order to free space to relocate the SEN Hub
  • In order to refurbish 8 classrooms which will be used to teach Maths.
  • Created 2 new IT classrooms
  • Created 3 temporary science laboratories in other classrooms
  • Refurbished the temporary classrooms at the back of the SAM block to create temporary science laboratories
  • Created a temporary car park off the main drive

The entire project is expected to be finished by September 2018.