Plans to transform four classrooms at one of Aberdeenshire’s largest secondary schools have been put out to tender.
Aberdeenshire Council has tabled proposals to create a “flexible teaching space” in the heart of Peterhead Academy, and is now inviting tenders from potential contractors.
The contract – which is worth an estimated £200,000 – is being funded by a Scottish Government cash injection announced by Education Secretary Angela Constance in August.
Up to 20 projects across 19 Scottish council areas have been handed grants to improve the learning environment.
At Peterhead Academy the cash will be spend re-modelling four classrooms to form one flexible space.
It will be equipped with new computers, and will be available to youngsters as a social area when not in use for teaching.
The plans were agreed by members of the Buchan area committee at a meeting earlier this year and developers have until June 8 to submit their tenders.
Last night councillor Alison Evison, chairwoman of the education, learning and leisure committee, said: “The council’s successful bid for £250,000 means we can now push forward with plans to significantly improve the learning environment in Peterhead Academy.
“Creating space for flexible teaching as well as installing modern IT equipment means the area will be much more inspirational and will allow pupils to share and learn from one another.”
The public contract notice published by the local authority calls for alterations to existing classrooms to create and “innovative classroom”, as well as associated mechanical and electrical works.
The SNP-led council administration has made building a long-term replacement for Peterhead Academy a priority over the next few years.
So far, four sites around the north-east’s biggest town have been identified as possible options for a modern replacement, in line with similar projects in Ellon and Inverurie.
There is not currently money earmarked for a new school – which could cost upwards of £40million – in the current budget.
However it is understood the project could be included in next year’s spending plan.
