Berwickshire High School in Duns, the first of Scottish Borders Council's three new high schools opened on Tuesday.

February 24 was exactly two years and 24 days after the PPP contracts were finalised with the Scottish Borders Education Partnership (SBEP).

Headteacher Rob Kelly received the keys for the new school from SBEP's General Manager James Aberdein. Rob Kelly said: "Every school reflects the era it was built and our new school is very much a 21st century building. Our staff, our students and our community are really excited about the opportunities the new school will bring. I am confident it will provide an inspiration for all."

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James Aberdein, General Manager for the 3 High Schools project, said: "We are delighted for the students, staff and the wider community, who will also have the opportunity to use these fantastic facilities.

"My involvement started before the construction work commenced and it is great to have seen the project from start to finish: the highs and lows and the buildings taking shape over the last two years."

Facilities available for the community to use at Duns include indoor and outdoor sports pitches, drama and music studios, learning resource centres, food technology rooms and much more.

The next school to open is Eyemouth High School on 6 March 2009. The third school, Earlston High School, is due for handover in July and all three are amongst the most environmentally advanced schools built in Scotland.

(GK/JM)