Dumfries High School

The Challenge

Dumfries & Galloway Council required a modern secondary school capable of meeting the educational needs of future generations while enhancing sporting, recreational and community facilities within the area.

The project needed to be delivered alongside the existing operational school, ensuring continuity of education throughout construction. The development also formed a key part of the wider Dumfries Learning Town programme, requiring extensive engagement with pupils, staff, local stakeholders and the wider community.

Our Approach

Morgan Sindall Construction was appointed by hub South West Scotland to deliver the new Dumfries High School through a collaborative partnership approach involving the council, school staff and local community.

To enable continuous operation of the school during construction, the works were carefully phased across three stages:

• Construction of a new all-weather sports pitch for early return to the school and local community.
• Delivery of the new high school building.
• Demolition of the former school following completion of the new facility.

This phased approach minimised disruption while ensuring educational activities could continue throughout the programme.

Creating a Future-Ready Learning Environment

The new campus has been designed to deliver high-quality teaching, learning and wellbeing spaces that support modern educational practices.

Internally, the school will feature:

• Specialist science and language breakout spaces
• A modern library
• Flexible learning environments
• Social and dining spaces
• A multifunctional assembly hall with retractable seating

The building has been designed to encourage collaboration, provide greater flexibility for teaching and learning, and create an inspiring environment for both pupils and staff.

Exceptional Sports and Community Facilities

A key feature of the project is its strong focus on health, wellbeing and community use.

Alongside the new all-weather sports pitch, the development will include the David Keswick Athletics Centre, providing enhanced PE and sporting facilities for both pupils and the wider community. The campus has been designed as a valuable community asset, creating opportunities for sport, recreation and local engagement beyond the school day.

External features also include:

• Outdoor social and dining areas
• An amphitheatre
• A science garden
• Community-accessible sports facilities

Sustainability and Social Value

Sustainability sits at the heart of the project, with the new school designed to support Dumfries & Galloway Council's vision for a modern, energy-efficient learning estate. The development places a strong emphasis on reducing energy consumption while creating comfortable and inspiring environments for learning.

Alongside construction works, Morgan Sindall Construction is delivering a range of social value initiatives to benefit local communities. Working with local partners, business organisations and education providers, the project is creating opportunities for local suppliers, skills development and apprenticeships.

The project has also supported financial education across Dumfries through a partnership with CHAP, funding workshops that help young people develop essential life skills including budgeting, saving and money management. Delivered across local secondary schools, the initiative is helping equip pupils with the confidence and knowledge needed for life beyond the classroom.

Delivering a Lasting Legacy

More than a new school building, Dumfries High School represents a significant investment in the future of Dumfries and Galloway.

By combining modern educational facilities, enhanced sporting provision and a strong commitment to sustainability and social value, the project will create a lasting legacy for pupils, staff and the wider community for generations to come.