Extension works at Dunbar Grammar School

Pupils and staff at Dunbar Grammar School returning after the Easter break will be pleased to notice that work is continuing to progress on the latest phase of a multi-million pound extension at the school.Phase one of the project included expanding the pupil social space to create a large, airy space to eat and meet, and was completed in the summer of 2016. Phase two comprises a new two-storey L-shaped block to the east side of the school which will include additional classrooms and staff bases, a new Home Economics department, a new library and learning centre with a dedicated IT space, additional PE changing rooms, and new suited accommodation for Pupil and Learning Support.At the heart of the new accommodation will be a large covered ‘social hub’ – a flexible multi-use space that can be used for a variety of purposes including group and individual teaching, presentations, eating and other social uses. Alterations are also being made to the existing school building to maximise the use of existing spaces and will provide additional science labs, technology rooms, a new drama studio and more craft, design and technology spaces. There will also be a new full-sized, all-weather sports pitch in the school grounds.East Lothian Council has procured the expansion works via the existing PPP Project contract with Innovate East Lothian Limited at a total cost of £10.38 million, and forms part of a wider council investment of almost £100m in new or expanded schools over three years.The project is expected to be complete by the end of October 2018.