Bellarmine Extension at St Paul's High School Officially Opens

The new Bellarmine extension at St Paul's High School in the South of Glasgow was officially opened this afternoon by First Minister, Humza Yousaf MSP and City Convener for Education and Early Years, Councillor Christina Cannon.

The multi-million pound extension - comparable in size to a new primary school - will help to address the capacity challenges in the Greater Pollok area which has one of the highest number of pupils in any Glasgow ward.

Despite the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic and its impact on the supply chain, progress with the project was maintained, and the building was delivered on time, in under one year.

Councillor Christina Cannon, City Convener of Education and Early Years - who unveiled the commemorative plaque alongside the First Minister - was overjoyed to officially open the brand new building. She said: "This is such an exciting time for the pupils, staff, and entire school community of St Paul's High School.

"The bright and modern building is so impressive and will allow for more young people from the local area to attend the school and benefit from the new facilities.

"Not only will it enhance the school estate, but it will also provide a nurturing environment for learning and teaching where our pupils can flourish and reach their full potential.

"This worthy investment will have a lasting impact on the local community."

The extension, which aims to create a supportive and encouraging learning environment, has 14 state-of-the-art classrooms, as well as new sports changing facilities. The old blaise sports pitch has also been upgraded to an all-weather, multi-use games area for pupils to enjoy.

First Minister of Scotland, Humza Yousaf MSP, said: "It is a pleasure to be joining staff and pupils at St Paul's RC High School for the official opening of their brand new extension. The development and delivery of this project has been exemplary, despite circumstantial challenges, and the results look fantastic.

"Over my years as the local MSP I have loved having the opportunity to meet and get to know St Pauls pupils. At their annual high school elections they give us real politicians a run for our money, with a palpable pride in their school and a passion to improve the wider communities they live in.

"I am delighted that this will allow the school to continue to expand their roll and support more pupils through their secondary education journey."

The works were undertaken with minimal disruption to the school during the swift building process.

Lisa Pierotti, Headteacher of St Paul's High School, said: "I couldn't be more delighted with our new extension. This is exactly what our young people and our school community deserve.

"With a rising roll, our original building was jam-packed and there was not enough space. This state-of-the-art extension will offer more accommodation and make sure that our aim for excellent learning and teaching for all our young people is maintained."

The contract was administered by 3ED, and led as a design and build project by infrastructure and engineering company, Amey Projects Scotland. Amey is also responsible for running the school's PFI FM contract.

Marie Davis, Operations Manager at Amey said: "It's been a pleasure working with all parties to provide St Paul's with this amazing extension.

"On behalf of Amey, I look forward to delivering the high standard of service which will include the new extension."