The new look Carnoustie High School - the largest single element of Angus Council's multi million Forfar/Carnoustie schools project - has been officially opened.

The project involved the creation of a new teaching block to provide accommodation for up to 950 pupils, incorporating a new entrance/reception area, offices and classrooms, all fitted out to the highest standards and incorporating the latest in ICT equipment.

Works have also been undertaken and are ongoing to improve the retained part of the old school building which includes the theatre, sports facilities, and music department, and this is expected to be completed for the start of the new term in August 2009.

As the final part of the project, the old school building is being demolished to make way for a landscaped front entrance and car park.

Welcoming the official opening of the new school, Angus Education Convener Peter Nield said: "Pupils and teachers at Carnoustie High School are settling well into their new purpose-built teaching block. This marks the latest milestone in the Carnoustie/Forfar schools project as it nears completion. By this summer, pupils in Forfar and Carnoustie will be educated in schools fit for the 21st century which have been fitted out to the highest standards."

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Head teacher Fraser Booth said: "The new school is bright and spacious with large purpose built learning and teaching areas, all equipped with the latest technology. Already, pupils and staff have settled into the new building and have created an ethos of achievement and pride in the new school."

Through public private partnership Robertson Capital Projects were appointed by Angus Council to deliver this £50m redevelopment of the council's education estate. The extensive building project comprises the design, construction, financing and operation of six primary schools and a major new extension to Carnoustie High School. All schools are constructed by Robertson Eastern, with Robertson Facilities Management providing a range of management and support services during the 30-year life of the project.

Robertson executive chairman Bill Robertson, said: "From the design stage through to construction, we have remained focused on creating purpose-built premises which contribute positively to the learning-outcomes of local children in each of the seven new schools in the area.

"We will continue our relationship with Angus Council and will work with them in partnership over the next 30 years through the provision of facilities management services."

(GK/JM)