The updated designs for the first new school at Aberdeen’s newest town have been unveiled to the public.
Residents of Countesswells got a preview of what their first new primary school will look like and were able to comment on the design and lay-out at a recent consultation event.
Architects and planners from Aberdeen City Council shared plans and computer-generated images of the school, which will open in 2021, with excited parents and other interested residents.
With provision for over 400 pupils as well as around 60 nursery children, the plans include a space for early years’ education, an all-weather pitch, parking area and two separate playgrounds as well as an outdoor classroom which will offer an innovative approach to teaching and learning.
Councillor John Wheeler, convener of Aberdeen City Council’s educational operational committee said: “Evidence shows that outdoor learning and outdoor playtime are beneficial to a child’s development. This belief is shared and encouraged by the developers behind Countesswells, who have shaped the town to encourage healthy outdoor lifestyles that promote the well-being of its residents.
“Taking the classroom outside helps develop skills and attitudes not always possible in an indoor setting. It encourages learning using natural settings while engaging children with the environment around them.”
Karen Watt, community liaison officer at Countesswells said: “Since confirming the school, everyone at Countesswells has been really excited to see the plans come to fruition. The final designs take account of feedback and ideas from Countesswells parents and children last summer.
“Importantly, and in line with the community ethos we have created at Countesswells, the school will also cater for the wider community, with designated community areas that can be accessed out of school hours. This includes the gym hall which can be used for evening classes and community events and a meeting room – perfect for community groups to get together.”
Pupils living in Countesswells are currently being taught in the former Hazlewood School, overseen by Countesswells Primary School headteacher Paula Rough who has been integral in ensuring the children of Countesswells receive a first-rate primary education
Two primary schools and a new academy are planned within the approved masterplan for Countesswells, which will eventually comprise 3,000 homes, along with healthcare facilities, local business units and shops, neighbourhood centres, green and civic spaces and extensive parkland.
Countesswells project director, Martin Dalziel, believes that the opening of the new school is a turning point in the development of the new town.
He explained: “Families and couples looking to start a family will be even more attracted to Countesswells now that they can see the state-of-the-art teaching and learning environment that will be in place for their children. This, in turn, will accelerate the delivery of other community facilities.”
For information about Countesswells, visit https://countesswells.com/.
Main entrance