SENIOR pupils at Ardrossan Academy will not get the chance to study in a new school – but are thrilled about this opportunity for future generations.

A number of pupils attended Wednesday’s meeting of Full Council and were delighted that the proposals for the Education and Community Campus – which would include a new Ardrossan Academy and Winton Primary - moved to the next stage.

They believe that replacing the existing Ardrossan Campus is absolutely essential to maximise the potential of the pupils at the school.

Niamh Scott said: “Ardrossan Academy isn’t a great environment which, often unseen, lowers motivation and morale for both pupils and staff. This can have a detrimental effect on learning before classes have even begun.

“A fresh new modern building would resolve the above issue by providing pupils with a passionate and positive attitude towards their learning.

Isla Kolankaya said: “Our current facilities are not great. We want pupils to have access to better facilities which would support their learning.

“This is why we are so eager to ensure that future generations don’t experience the same downfalls.”

Pupils have witnessed the impact of the new campuses at Largs and Garnock and are confident a new Education and Community Campus would have a similar impact for the Three Towns.

Isla added: “On visiting Garnock Academy, we were overwhelmed at the difference in the learning and teaching environment.

“For Largs pupils, the transition from the old school to the new school also gave their wider community a boost and we would like to do the same for our community. This will be done through the additional facilities that will be part of the new school such as the swimming pool.

“Many people who don’t have a direct link with the school struggle to understand difficulties faced by both pupils and staff throughout the school

“We are excited that the proposals have reached the statutory stage and that we are still on course to get a new school.”