Pupils at Inverclyde Academy have been given their first look at their new state-of-the-art building and it didn't disappoint.

There were smiles all round as groups were given guided tours around the £29m facility.

Architects Studio E were commissioned by Inverclyde Council because of their proven track record in sustainability and design.

The new school is the first in the UK to have a 50kw wind turbine on a monopole tower. Pupils will benefit from a natural ventilation system while levels of carbon monoxide will be automatically monitored.

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Every classroom has an interactive white board which links to PC's DVD's and Freeview TV.

Lighting is designed to be targeted on work surfaces and the building is 100% disabled access.

There is a fully soundproof recording studio, drama studio and rehearsal rooms.

The sports facilities are first-class boasting a dance studio, fitness gym, sports hall and all weather football/hockey pitch. These will be available for use by the local community in the evenings.

Councillor Iain McKenzie, Convener of the Education and Lifelong Learning Committee said: "A lot of hard work by a great many people has gone into the planning and building of the new school. What has been achieved is a shining example of how to take education forward in the 21st Century."

Pupils and staff will move to the new school on December 19th.

(GK/JM)