The keys to the state-of-the-art building were handed over to West Lothian Council on June 29 by developer hub South East and main contractor Morrison Construction.

The 1,100 capacity school is West Lothian’s biggest single investment in education and has been designed with the pupil experience at the core, as well as providing facilities accessible to the local community.

It has been delivered on time and on budget, with staff now getting the building ready for the first pupils starting at the new school in August.

Future pupils of the new school joined with West Lothian’s executive councillor for education David Dodds, hub South East’s chief executive Paul McGirk and Morrison Construction operation’s director Allan Cunningham to mark the special occasion.

Councillor David Dodds said: “We are delighted to receive the keys to the fantastic new West Calder High School, which we believe is the finest facility of its kind in the UK just now.

“West Lothian already has one of the best school estates in Scotland, thanks to ongoing investment, and West Calder represents the very latest in school design to boost the educational experience.

“Thanks to hub South East and Morrison Construction for their hard work in delivering a facility that will make a huge difference to the next generation of West Lothian young people.”

Paul McGirk from hub South East added: “I’m delighted to have handed over the keys to the new West Calder High School to West Lothian Council, on schedule, within budget and ready for pupils and staff to enjoy when school starts again in August.

“This project is an excellent example of partnership working in action, with a fantastic team working together to design, develop and deliver a truly inspiring new educational facility. We look forward to collaborating on future projects.”

Morrison Construction’s Allan Cunningham said: “In building this fantastic new school, we have delivered state-of-the-art educational, arts and sporting facilities that will benefit not only current and future students, but the wider community too.

“It is wonderful to know the project has been able to directly benefit the community, supporting six graduates, 71 new and existing trainees and apprentices, and creating 27 new jobs during construction.”