The new 1,100-capacity school will be built by Morrison Construction near Parkhead Primary.

The project is being developed by hub South East Scotland and features will include a new swimming pool, a floodlit 3G sports pitch, and sports facilities for school/community use.

Work is already underway on a £5.5m rail overbridge and access road which will provide a direct link to the school from the A71.

Cllr Lawrence Fitzpatrick said: “I’m delighted to see the project to deliver the new £32m West Calder High School, the council’s largest ever investment in education, is progressing well.

“The modern, high-quality school will be a fantastic resource for local young people, providing an ideal learning environment for them to achieve their full potential. This investment will help ensure that West Lothian continues to have one of the best school estates in Scotland.

“The construction work phase will also provide valuable training and job opportunities for local residents. At its peak, 70-100 people will be employed on site, with up to an additional 10 full-time positions being created. The project is also targeting up to three new apprenticeships, with up to 30 apprentices expected to be involved in the delivery of the new school.”

Paul McGirk, chief executive of Hub South East Scotland, added: “It’s exciting to reach this major milestone in the development. The new West Calder High School will allow pupils and staff to enjoy modern, fit-for-purpose facilities and the community will benefit from investment in the local area.”

The new school is due to open in 2018.