Pupils with additional support needs in Caithness are set to benefit from a major new facility at Wick High School, following the opening of a repurposed building designed to support learning, wellbeing and development.
The new facility, known as Avonlea, was officially opened last week during a community open day attended by representatives from The Highland Council, the school’s parent council and local residents.
Previously used as a residential unit, Avonlea has now been transformed into a dedicated space for pupils with complex additional support needs, marking what the school describes as a significant step forward for inclusive education in the area.
Rector Sebastian Sandecki said the new base provides specialist facilities that have been needed for many years.
“Avonlea provides specialist spaces that we have not previously had in our high school and which have been greatly needed for a long time.
“The base includes purpose built classrooms, multi sensory rooms, a soft play room, a snug room and secure outdoor space, all designed to support learning, wellbeing and development.
“This new environment will allow our pupils to access education in a way that meets their individual needs, helping them to feel safe, supported and ready to learn, and we are incredibly proud of this development and grateful to everyone who helped make Avonlea a reality."
The project centred on repurposing the former six bedroom residential unit on West Banks Avenue in Wick into a dedicated additional support needs building serving pupils across Caithness.
Working within the original footprint, the building has been adapted to include three classrooms alongside specialist spaces for multi sensory learning, safe play, soft play, life skills development, changing places facilities and secure outdoor areas designed to encourage a range of activities.
Planning approval for the project was granted in June 2024, with a competitive tendering process leading to GMR Henderson being awarded the contract in early February 2025.
Funding for the work was provided through Highland Council’s capital budget, with construction beginning in April last year and continuing through to August.
Following a soft transition period, the school was able to begin using the facility fully from October 2025.
Chair of Highland Council’s education committee John Finlayson said the facility would have a lasting impact on pupils and families.
“This is a really impressive new facility which is going to make a big difference to the lives of pupils with additional support needs.
“The council is committed to helping all our young people to feel safe, valued and included in their learning, and a key part of that comes from ensuring they have access to the best environments suited to their needs."
Wick provost and local councillor Jan McEwan, who attended the open day on Friday 16 January, said she was struck by both the quality and range of facilities on offer.
“I was so impressed with the varied and amazing facilities they have.
“It is truly an amazing place and good to see that Avonlea has a purpose which will benefit a lot of families throughout Caithness, and I congratulate Encompass Caithness and other campaigners who worked very hard to get these facilities."
