The new Kirkwall Grammar School and Papdale Halls of Residence were officially opened by First Minister Alex Salmond yesterday.
The developments were built as part of Orkney’s £58million schools investment programme, boosted by £40million from the Scottish Government.
Speaking at the opening, Mr Salmond said inspectors had rightly called the new building “outstanding”.
“Young people from Orkney and nearby islands will be able to develop their skills in top rate educational facilities, including a fantastic new theatre, hair dressing salon, state of the art classrooms and an abundance of social space for the young people,” he said.
Head teacher Sheila Dick said: “The whole school community has been lifted by the building which is light, airy and spacious. Break out spaces, double classrooms, a superb theatre and outstanding PE facilities are just some of the features that make the school a superb learning and teaching environment.”
Orkney Islands Council education chairwoman Janice Annal said: “Everyone who comes through the door of the new Kirkwall Grammar School is hugely impressed with the quality of the design and the ambience.
“I’m confident that this building provides a learning environment second to none for pupils and teachers both now and in the years to come.”