New Galashiels Academy campus opens its doors

Excited pupils gathered outside the impressive new community campus at the start of the day, before they were welcomed into their new school by Headteacher Steven Raeburn and Galashiels Town Band.

Head boy Hamish Seggie and head girl Aimee McAneny had the honour of cutting the ribbon marking the occasion.

The new community campus features education spaces designed to support the delivery of a 21st century curriculum with attractive atrium spaces for collaboration and interaction as well as breakout spaces for flexible teaching.

Enhanced sporting facilities including a new 25m six lane swimming pool and hydrotherapy pool also form part of the new school which will benefit the wider community. The next phase will include a new multi-purpose 2G and 3G pitches and upgraded tennis courts.

The £64 million facility is a state-of-the-art replacement for the existing High School. The project has been delivered by main works contractor Morrison Construction Ltd and SBC’s development partner Hub South East, which has overseen the project through the various development phases.

Local Galashiels, Tweeddale, Leaderdale and Melrose councillors were also in attendance to mark the occasion and received a guided tour of the campus from headteacher Steven Raeburn and pupils.

Steven Raeburn, headteacher of Galashiels Academy, said: “We are delighted to open the doors of the new Galashiels Academy today and welcome pupils and staff into this fantastic new building. 

“This transformational facility marks the start of a new and exciting chapter of education in Galashiels.”

Councillor Julie Pirone, executive member for education, youth development and lifelong learning, said: The opening of the new Galashiels Academy community campus is an incredibly proud day for the whole community. This is an exceptional building with world-class facilities that will enhance the learning and development of all our young people and help to nurture ambition and aspiration.

“This campus shows our commitment to creating inspiring, shared spaces where young people and the wider community can learn, connect, and thrive.”

David Robertson, chief executive of Scottish Borders Council, said: “The new Galashiels Academy community campus is a fantastic addition to the town, an inspiring, modern environment for our young people and a shared resource for the wider community.

“As we move into Phase Two, the demolition of the old school will unlock the exciting redevelopment of Scott Park, with expanded greenspace, new play and sports facilities and improved links to Gala Policies and Gala Hill. Together, the campus and the park regeneration will create a vibrant, connected place to learn, play, and come together as a community.”