The fit-out and construction group will complete technical designs and costings for the new school, which will sit on land adjacent to the University of Edinburgh’s Easter Bush.

Midlothian Council leader Councillor Kelly Parry said: “Having progressed our agreement with the university to buy the land for the school and approved the new catchment changes, we’re delighted to announce this latest milestone – the appointment of the Phase I contractor.

“We’re looking forward to Morgan Sindall Group delivering designs that can be tested and priced to make sure the project can produce an inspiring learning and community space that comes in on budget.”

With capacity for up to 1600 pupils, the Beeslack replacement school will be a science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) Centre of Excellence.

It will offer a high-quality learning environment, where pupils can take advantage of the STEM expertise on its doorstep. The university’s Easter Bush is a world-leading research and innovation campus specialising in animal biosciences, agritech, veterinary medicine and medicine.

New Additional Support Needs (ASN) provision will be able to accommodate up to 40 young people with severe and medically complex needs. ASN facilities will include a hydrotherapy pool, sensory garden, suitable changing facilities and accessible playground equipment and space.

Built to Scottish Government energy-efficient standards meaning it will have low carbon emissions, it will also have a swimming pool and community facilities, including an artificial sports pitch and grass pitches. 

After the statutory catchment consultation, in 2024 councillors approved realigning the school’s catchment to include Loanhead and Paradykes Primary Schools’ catchment areas. Mauricewood and Glencorse Primary Schools’ catchment areas will be realigned to Penicuik High School catchment.