We would like all the schools to be beacons of environmental best practices, setting the tone for the development.
Their close proximity to rural areas will enable extensive environmental studies and a closer affinity with nature.
“Hello, I’m Ian Gilchrist.
I am Stirling Developments education consultant, having been involved in education for over 30 years. I began my teaching career in Edinburgh in 1971 then taught in high schools in Midlothian, before moving into education administration. As an Assistant Director of Education in Lothian Region, I had responsibility for nursery and primary education in West Lothian then, on re-organisation of local government, I held the post of Head of Education Development in West Lothian.
I am aware, therefore, of many of the issues concerning the delivery of high quality education to local communities and the importance which people in the area place on good local schools. Since the Calderwood has a requirement for a new community high school, new primary schools, including an extension to St. Paul’s PS, there is a unique opportunity to provide some outstanding education facilities for the local community.
We are keen that these schools are designed to inspire and enhance educational performance, creating a “feel good” factor for pupils, parents, staff and the community. To help achieve this, the team have visited new schools in Scotland and, last autumn, organised a visit for key education offi cers in West Lothian to inspect fl agship schools in SE England.
There are many aspects of the new school’s design to consider and it is our intention to work closely with West Lothian Council and the local community to ensure we achieve the key aim of creating an outstanding community campus, which can meet the needs of East Calder and the new community at Calderwood”.
A Successful Place : Education
A Safe, Pleasant Environment For Study, Play & Communal Use.
Two new primary schools are required in the new development, and we would like these to be at the heart of the community they serve. The Local Plan provides for an extension to St.Paul’s primary school, which is a good opportunity to improve the access and facilities.
New Community High School
A Mixed Use Campus Providing Sports And Community Facilities.
The new high school will be located in the Raw Holdings area, making it within walking distance of both East Calder, and Calderwood. It also provides good connectivity to Kirknewton and other surrounding areas.
We believe the new high school should be the flagship for Calderwood. An inspiring, landmark of design excellence. It should be the community focal point and accessible to all.
Guidelines for new education facilities have changed a lot over the past decade. Schools are opening up to become community facilities, with whole life learning, extensive sports facilities and a wide range of uses.
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