St Modan's High School pupils were welcomed into their brand new school this week to begin the new academic year.

The school has been under construction since January 2007 by Stirling Gateway Ltd on behalf of Stirling Council and is the fourth high school to be completed as part of the council's £100m schools rebuilding and refurbishment programme.

Councillor Graham Lambie, executive member with responsibility for children and lifelong learning said: "This new school is a great place for teaching and learning and I'm sure that both the staff and pupils will find it an inspiring and productive environment."

At the heart of the new school is a glass fronted atrium where pupils, staff and visitors can meet and socialise. The classrooms are well equipped and have the latest in information and communications technology.

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As well as providing all the traditional teaching areas for the 900 pupils and teaching staff the school also has extensive sports facilities including a forecourt games hall, a fitness and dance studio and outdoor sports fields.

The school also has an innovative rooftop green space for science and environmental projects and an outdoor art deck which gives stunning views of Stirling Castle, the Ochils and the Wallace Monument.

The school celebrates its 75th anniversary on September 5th when, at an evening ceremony, Secretary of State for Scotland Des Browne MP and Cardinal Keith O'Brien, will officially open the school. A key feature of the school is its beautiful new chapel which will be dedicated by Bishop Vincent Logan of Dunkeld on the afternoon of September 5th.

David Spiller, Director of Stirling Gateway Ltd said: "The new St. Modan's was delivered very much in partnership with school and council staff and we are very pleased with the designs that were jointly developed to provide a distinctive denominational school from the familiar concept and specified accommodation."

Under the 31 year PPP contract, FES FM will be responsible for maintenance of the new school as well as cleaning and security. Stirling Council will continue to be responsible for education policy at the school and the employment of all teaching, administrative, and catering staff.

Old school at St Ninians will be demolished and flats and houses will be built on the site.

(GK/JM)