Gordonstoun, in Elgin, Morayshire, has awarded Robertson Northern the contract to refurbish and extend part of the existing Ogstoun House, converting the building to add 55 new bedrooms to the estate.

The school is famous around the world because of its unique approach to character education, teaching life skills as well as fulfilling academic potential, and can count HRH The Prince of Wales and his brothers among its former students.

Frank Reid, regional managing director for Robertson Northern, said: “As one of the most highly thought of schools in the country, any work at Gordonstoun carries with it great responsibility, in particular ensuring the heritage of this institution is preserved.

“We are delighted to be working with the school to provide a boarding environment which the school and its pupils can be proud of for years to come.”

Among the school’s other notable past pupils are David Bowie’s son and Moon director Duncan Jones, Olympic Gold-medallist Heather Stanning, writer William Boyd, who wrote the James Bond novel, Solo, and Jason Connery, son of the original Bond, Sean Connery.

Hugh Brown, finance director of Gordonstoun, said: “This work is a key part of a plan to continuously improve the facilities at Gordonstoun. We are particularly pleased to award the contract to a locally based firm, which is part of our policy of working with local suppliers whenever possible.”

The extension is due to be complete in August.