Construction is well underway for a cutting-edge educational facility known as Bluebell House, tailored for young people with additional support needs on the grounds of Bannockburn High School. The facility, which will cater for up to 24 pupils, will feature classrooms, nurture nooks, a sensory room, a GP room, as well as staff and administrative facilities. The project, with an estimated cost of £5.1 million funded by the Education core capital programme, started its primary phase in October. The construction is expected to be completed and operational by the summer of 2025. Following this phase, a subsequent extension will be added to double the capacity, accommodating 48 pupils.
Hub East Central Scotland Ltd is overseeing the Design and Build contract for Bluebell House, with Ogilvie Construction serving as the main contractors for the project. Cllr Danny Gibson, Children and Young People Convener, expressed his enthusiasm for the development, citing the significant investment in enhancing educational opportunities for learners with additional support needs. Moreover, he highlighted the ongoing engagement with various stakeholders to ensure the facility aligns with the community’s needs in providing long-term support for learners with additional requirements.
Martin Poole, Pre-Construction Director at Ogilvie Construction, commended the progress made on the project, aiming to deliver a high-quality building customised to meet the needs of staff and pupils with additional requirements. Emma Silvey, Project Director at Hub East Central Scotland, emphasized the collaborative efforts with Stirling Council to realise the vision for special needs provision at Bannockburn High School. The completed building is anticipated to offer outstanding facilities that will benefit generations to come.
The surge in students with additional support needs has necessitated the construction of such facilities due to insufficient capacity in the current education infrastructure. Stirling Council recognised the increasing demands for specialised provision for secondary-aged students with ASN, prompting the need for additional capacity to ensure educational needs are met within the community. The rise in assessed students with ASN is partially attributed to enhanced assessment practices, diagnostic capabilities, and medical advancements over the years.
In conclusion, the development of Bluebell House stands as a testament to Stirling Council’s commitment to providing inclusive educational environments that cater to the diverse needs of students with additional support requirements, ensuring they receive the necessary support close to their communities.