Although enabling works on the site are already underway by BAM, the symbolic groundbreaking ceremony was a chance for those involved to welcome the milestone.

Cllr David Alexander said: “I’m pleased to be here today, to see how work is progressing and to meet some of the young people who are going to benefit.

“We’re a step closer to a new learning campus in Dunfermline and an asset the whole community can benefit from.”

Cllr David Ross added: “Dunfermline Learning Campus will bring two high schools and Fife College together on one site.

“It’s an exciting opportunity for the young people of Fife. A shared learning campus opens many different routes for our young people by improving attainment, employability skills and positive destinations.”

Fife Council is working in partnership with Fife College and the Scottish Government to create the campus, a project procured and managed for Fife Council by hub East Central Scotland.

Cllr Craig Walker, convener of Education & Childrens Services Sub-Committee praised the partnership approach: “Through this strong partnership with the Scottish Government and Fife College we can bring a new learning approach to Fife that will benefit our young people now and for generations to come.”

The Dunfermline Learning Campus site will bring together pupils, students and staff at St Columba’s RC High School, Woodmill High School and Fife College in modern, fit for purpose and low carbon facilities. The schools will accommodate up to 2,700 students and are being designed to give flexibility in the delivery of the curriculum all whilst retaining the individual school identities.

The schools at Dunfermline Learning campus will offer:

• innovative internal spaces,
• a pioneering ‘Learning Lab’ featuring performance analysis, media studio, recording booth, food technology and extensive creative project space,
• inspiring learning plazas promoting collaboration,
• breakout booths to allow for individual study,
• digitally enabled learning spaces,
• a range of outdoor learning spaces,
• community facilities,
• internal sports halls, gym halls, fitness suite and dance studio,
• two external grass sports pitches and three all-weather sports pitches, and
• external tennis courts and multi-use games areas.

Dunfermline Learning Campus is due to open in Summer 2024.