'World class': Fettes unveils plans for sector-leading new Science and Innovation Centre
New Fettes head teacher Richard Girvan has ambitious plans for the school - including a new Science and Innovation Centre
Fettes College has revealed plans to build a new “world-class” centre for science, technology and innovation.
Following a multi-million-pound donation, management at the school have opted to invest in a new laboratories and cutting-edge technology for pupils.
It comes as the school begins a new chapter under the headship of Richard Girvan, who joined the school in August.
Mr Girvan has said he plans for Fettes, where annual fees cost up to cost up to £56,550, to be a leader in the use of AI but also have a focus on pupil wellbeing.
He said: “This is a hugely exciting development made possible thanks to a very generous donation. “The new centre will be world-class and reflect our dedication to fostering a culture of creativity, inquiry and achievement in these vital fields of study.
“It builds on our vision for Fettes.”
The Science and Innovation Centre will provide students with what the schools says is access to best-in-class modern laboratories, collaborative learning spaces, and cutting-edge technology.
It is hoped that the centre will support hands-on scientific exploration and creative thinking.
Designed by award-winning Edinburgh architects Reiach and Hall, the hub will sit in the heart of
the school’s city centre campus and replace the existing 1970s facility that is reaching the end of its lifespan.
The plans have been unveiled shortly after the opening of the school’s Allardice Centre, a specially designed and sustainable on-campus hub to cater for the physical and mental wellbeing of all students and staff.
Libby Heathcote, Associate Director, Reiach and Hall Architects, said: “We are thrilled to have been
chosen to design the new Science and Innovation Centre at the heart of Fettes College’s stunning and historic campus.
“Our design focuses on simplicity, adaptability, and sustainability, using a rigorously organised plan to deliver modern laboratories and generous classrooms connected by open and inviting communal spaces.”
Mr Girvan has said Fettes College plans to reflect the growing importance of science and innovation.
Its curriculum caters for both GCSE/A Level and International Baccalaureate (IB) pathways, and the centre will create a focal point for science, technology, robotics and engineering education.
RIBA Stage 3 Design is now underway and once planning approval has been obtained, a full timescale for construction will be determined.
Fettes was once renowned as a school were corporal punishment and bullying were part of daily life.
Its new head teacher, however, has determined to put those days firmly in the past and said his fundamentals are to ensure every pupil is “cared for and respected”.
A therapet named Fidra, a cockapoo, is a feature of the school now too.
The institution recently celebrated a record-breaking year for A Level and IB results.
The only school in Scotland to offer both IB and A Level pathways in Sixth Form, August’s results were its best ever for combined A Level and IB results.
The combined A Level and IB results saw 22 per cent of students achieve A*/7; 63 per cent achieve A*-A/7-6; and 89 per cent achieve A*-B/7-5.
At GCSE level, nearly a fifth of all grades were at Grade 9 with 40 per cent at Grades 9–8 (A*).
Fettes is the top IB school in Scotland and a top 10 IB school within the UK.
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