“What stories do these walls conceal?” I wonder as I stand before Belmont Academy. This isn’t just a school. It’s a place with layers of history. Belmont Academy’s story began in 1960. Ayr Academy needed help because it was overcrowded. So Belmont Academy was built.
Initially, Belmont Academy featured four houses. They were named after islands in the Firth of Clyde. These houses were Arran, Bute, Craig, and Cumbrae. As the school grew, Kintyre was added. Later, Bute was removed when the school’s population decreased. Bute was brought back along with Lomond. This happened when the number of students increased again.
The original Belmont Academy campus had three blocks. These were known as A, B, and C blocks. C block was the biggest. It housed the main office. The school used this campus for 48 years. Then, they decided to build a new school. It was built on the school’s playing field. A Block was closest to the playing field. It held Art, Mathematics, and Science departments.
B Block was furthest from the playing field. It contained Music, Modern Languages, and English departments. Guidance rooms and the medical office were also there. C block was the largest. It held the administration office and the library. You could also find the cafeteria and assembly halls there. Departments like History and Computing were also in C Block.
In 2006, Mainholm Academy closed for repairs. Its students were sent to Belmont, Ayr, and Kyle Academies. To make room, temporary classrooms were built. Later, South Ayrshire Council announced Mainholm Academy would close for good. The students would permanently transfer to their new schools. It was then decided to build a new campus for Belmont Academy.
South Ayrshire Council used a Public Private Partnership to fund the project. The British company Carillion was contracted for the construction. Work began on January 10, 2007. The new school was completed by summer 2008. It opened on August 24, 2008. Both students and teachers were impressed. The new Belmont Academy had new equipment. It also had better access to computers. There was a larger cafeteria and lockers for older students. Overall, there was more space.
After the move, the old school was fenced off. Demolition began. It was completed by February 2009. The new playing fields were ready by the start of the new school year in August.
In July and August 2006, trial trenches were dug. This was for a proposed extension to Belmont Academy. Foundations of walls were found. These were likely from Belmont House buildings. Further excavation revealed more archaeological remains.
Today, Belmont Academy reflects modern practices. It offers a positive learning environment. It is a place for creative and motivated students. Belmont Academy continues to evolve. It embraces its history while preparing for the future. Its story is one of growth. It shows adaptation and a commitment to education. As we move on, remember the journey of Belmont Academy.