Aberdeen City Council Leader, Councillor Jenny Laing, who was given a tour of Orchard Brae today said: “It’s fantastic to be able to visit such an amazing facility, the first of its kind in Scotland, right here in Aberdeen. This is more than a school; it’s a Centre for Excellence that is leading the way nationally as a central point from which children and young people who have additional support needs, and their families, can access support and guidance from a range of partners.”
Donald MacDonald, Managing Director, Ogilvie Construction, said: “Our team worked closely with Aberdeen Council to ensure that this complex project was delivered successfully, creating a high-quality learning that meets the needs of the community.”
Caroline Stirton, the Executive Head Teacher at Orchard Brae said: “This is such a proud day for me personally and everyone connected with Orchard Brae. We’ve put in so much hard work, research thought and planning into the design of the Centre of Excellence and we are really looking forward to welcoming our pupils and their parents to their new school.”
Gayle Gorman, Director of Education and Children’s Services: “This Centre of Excellence will be central to improving educational outcomes for pupils for generations to come.”
Orchard Brae School will provide education and support for up to 150 full-time children and young people aged 3 to 18 years, with severe and complex educational and medical needs, from across Aberdeen, and replaces Woodlands School and Hazelwood School. A pre-school additional support service, previously provided in Seaton School, will also be relocated to the new facility.
Ogilvie Construction is part of the Ogilvie Group is one of Scotland’s most consistently successful family owned businesses. The company is over 60 years old and employs more than 450 people across its various business operations in the UK.