After months of developments being restricted to meetings and planning events, suddenly the pace gets quicker.  Just this afternoon I heard that the topographic survey is to take place this Monday – even preceding the ground suitability survey!

The start of building work is getting closer.  Yesterday morning saw a site visit by staff from Balfour Beatty and the utilities.  They were looking at the potential positions for exploratory holes to be dug for ground investigations.  These could start within two weeks…  Look out on this blog for a photograph of a hole which will mark the first visible signs of the detailed planning for the construction work!

This evening we held an information session for the parents of P7 parents.  There was an excellent turn out.  It was good to meet everyone and to be able to share something of the plans for the new build.  Their youngsters will be able to spend most of their secondary school careers in the new building.  The pupils too are beginning to talk about their hopes.  We were able to share that this week we have had two meeting with staff from Balfour Beatty – the construction company.  The first looked at ways in which we can use the construction period of the curriculum.  The second was with some of the planners who wanted to look round the site.  There is definitely a growing sense of anticipation for what can be achieved.

As a start date for the new building becomes more of a reality, staff and pupils are already starting to plan how we can use the construction period as a learning experience.  First into action are the History and Modern Studies departments.  Pupils in their elective time have begun to plan the idea of placing a time capsule.  The likely container has been provided by Macduff Boatyards and would have been used to keep emergency flares dry and secure.  Now the challenge will be to decide how to fill it.  Already there is much enthusiasm and creativity with dozens of ideas being discussed.  The class are a long way from making final decisions.  There will be much discussion and consultation to come.  Look out for more details on this blog!

This morning I attended a meeting of the Steering Group.  This comprises councillors, a representative of the Parent Council and some of the Moray Council staff who are directly involved with the project.  Another encouraging meeting.  We received an update on progress.  A lot of work is ongoing between Moray Council, the architects, Hubco and Scottish Futures Trust to ensure that we can get the best possible resources for the pupils of EHS and the wider community.  Not too many details at the moment, but it is encouraging to know that folk are working hard and progress is being made.  A report is being prepared which will be presented to the full Council at the beginning of February.