Key Highlights
- Aberdeen city council is investing in six school projects, including Riverbank Primary School and Hazlehead Academy.
- The projects involve major refurbishment or construction of new facilities at Ferryhill Primary School, St Machar Academy, Harlaw Academy, Bucksburn Academy, and Hazlehead Academy.
- Total investment in these projects is over £60 million, with Riverbank Primary School costing £30.3 million and Hazlehead Academy replacing a 1970s-built campus.
- These upgrades are part of the council’s ongoing efforts to improve the education estate for young people across Aberdeen.
New Investment in Aberdeen Schools
Aberdeen City Council is undertaking significant investments in its educational infrastructure, with six schools currently undergoing refurbishment or receiving new buildings. The projects, which include major works at Ferryhill Primary School and the replacement of Hazlehead Academy, are part of a broader effort to provide young people with excellent learning environments.
Riverbank Primary School: A Model for Future Education
The recently opened Riverbank Primary School in Tillydrone stands as a model for future education facilities. With a capacity for up to 651 pupils and 60 children in Early Learning and Nursery, the new school also features a 3G sports pitch and a variety of outdoor play and learning spaces. The £30.3 million investment marks a significant milestone in Aberdeen’s commitment to improving educational resources.
Ferryhill Primary School: A Major Refurbishment
At Ferryhill Primary School, practical completion was achieved for the new nursery in August, which opened at the start of the school term. The next phase involves starting works on the main school extension and refurbishment after the tender exercise is completed in autumn 2025.
St Machar Academy: Enhancing Learning Spaces
The external improvements at St Machar Academy include the removal of disused temporary classroom units, installation of a new food pod and covered dining area, as well as a multi-use games area. These enhancements are designed to provide better facilities for students and staff.
Harlaw Academy: Expanding Campus Facilities
The extension at Harlaw Academy is currently underway, with work taking place during the 2025 school summer holidays. This includes diverting a gas main, creating new access and playground areas, and installing a new access road to support construction.
Hazlehead Academy: Replacing an Outdated Campus
A new building for Hazlehead Academy has been approved, with funding already allocated. The current 1970s-built campus is being replaced to provide better learning environments and modern facilities for students. Development partner hub North Scotland is progressing with advanced works including tree felling and demolishing the swimming pool block and former janitors’ lodges.
Implications of School Upgrades
The upgrades at these schools are not just about improving physical spaces; they are part of a larger strategy to ensure every young person in Aberdeen has access to high-quality educational resources. Education convener Councillor Martin Greig emphasized the importance of such investments, stating that “investing in schools means investing in local communities.”
While these projects come with challenges—such as potential cost increases due to external pressures like inflation and energy costs—they are crucial for the future development of Aberdeen’s educational landscape. As Councillor Alex McLellan noted, “We are investing in our education estate to ensure every young person in our city has the best possible learning environment.”
Conclusion
The ongoing school projects in Aberdeen reflect a commitment to providing students with state-of-the-art facilities and resources. With investments totaling over £60 million, these upgrades aim not only to meet current needs but also to prepare for future generations of learners.
