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Highland Schools PFI
Education delivery in the Scottish Highlands area has taken a major step forward with the completion of five primary schools, eight secondary, one combined and one special needs school in the Inverness area, Kinlochleven and the Isle of Skye.
Importantly, due to the location of the schools, there has been widespread community negotiation and involvement in the design of all the schools resulting in extensive community facilities including swimming pools, leisure facilities, a climbing wall and public libraries.
The project was awarded 2008's PPP Annual Awards “Highly Recommended Award for Community Involvement.”
A major challenge on this project was the logistics of carrying out construction and operation over such a large geographic area with limited access. By using locally based staff and co-ordinating all project activities, all schools have opened on time and to budget.
A unique feature was the fact that Alpha Schools, the Special Purpose Company (SPC), was the sole bidder. Using an open book and partnered approach with the council throughout, with heavy auditing of all aspects, the project achieved best value.
Financing was also a first as the project became the first ever grouped school PFI financed by a bond issue.
Councillor Bill Fernie, The Highland Council’s Chairman of Education, Culture and Sport said: “Drummond School signifies a real investment by the council into the educational needs and aspirations of young people with additional support needs. I see it as a flagship facility which the Highlands can be proud of, offering excellent bespoke facilities and a learning environment that is second to none.”
Catherine MacDonald, Headteacher at Portree High School, said: “The new Portree High School is a community facility for all our residents with its library, swimming pool, venue and sports facilities. Its classrooms are equipped with the latest technology and are spacious and bright."
Galliford Try’s involvement in the project included:
· SPC management
Client:
Location: The Highlands
Consortium Title: Alpha Schools
Concession Period: 30 years
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