A new chapter in education for the Borders began this week as the brand-new Galashiels Academy campus officially opened its doors to pupils and staff on Tuesday 6 January.

Hundreds of students gathered outside the new community campus at the start of the school day before being welcomed into the building by headteacher Steven Raeburn and the Galashiels Town Band. Head boy Hamish Seggie and head girl Aimee McAneny performed the official ribbon-cutting to mark the occasion.

The £64 million campus has been designed to support the delivery of a 21st-century curriculum, with modern teaching spaces, large atrium areas for collaboration and interaction, and breakout spaces to allow more flexible approaches to learning.

Sporting provision has also been significantly enhanced. The new facilities include a 25-metre, six-lane swimming pool and a hydrotherapy pool, both of which will be available to the wider community. A further phase of development will deliver new multi-purpose 2G and 3G pitches and upgraded tennis courts.

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The project replaces the existing high school and has been delivered by main works contractor Morrison Construction Ltd, in partnership with Scottish Borders Council’s development partner Hub South East, which has overseen the scheme through its various development stages.

Local councillors from Galashiels, Tweeddale, Leaderdale and Melrose attended the opening ceremony and were given a guided tour of the campus by Mr 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, added: "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."