First look at new Crieff Community Campus

Jul 3 2009 by Alison Lowson, Strathearn Herald

For each department there is what is described as a break-out area. This will be furnished with low seating and will be used by pupils for more individual learning opportunities. For example, students on the English and Modern languages floor will be able to use the more intimate relaxed space for reading or for one-to-one conversation practice. These areas, like the classrooms, will be fitted with a up to date technology for pupil use.

In the science wing there is a greenhouse; the music department has a recording studio and practice rooms, and the drama department includes a studio theatre but is also directly behind The Tryst to allow students to use the main stage and the lighting box etc. There are just too many details to write about everything here.

The building should remain cool in the summer thanks to natural ventilation. (There is back up air conditioning but it is thought this will never be used). In the winter months the campus will be kept warm by underfloor heating which has been laid throughout and will be powered using bio-fuels. Toilet provision is extensive throughout the building.

When the SCC first opens in November this year the outdoor provision will include the rugby pitch plus a multi-purpose games area (MUGA), which will be positioned where the site office is currently housed, and an all weather area which will have room for two seven-a-side pitches.There will also be an outdoor performance area.

It is expected that the old school will be flattened by March 2010 and taking its place will be phase two of the sports facilities which will include a hockey, rugby and football pitch, a running track, cricket wicket and long-jump pit. It is hoped that this will be in use by 2011.

At present the car park at the Recreation Centre is being resurfaced. All of the trees and shrubs in this area have been safely removed and will either be reused in the landscaping of the campus or have already been donated to St Dominic’s Primary School and BLESMA. It is expected that the car park will take about five weeks to complete.

And, not wanting to miss a learning opportunity, Laing O’Rourke and Crieff High are holding a construction industry day for pupils interested in a career in this field when the schools return in August and further events are being planned for the future.

Watch this space over the next few months for more breaking news on this landmark project for Crieff and the whole of Strathearn.