Fettes College to build multi-million-pound Science and Innovation Centre
The Edinburgh school will replace a 1970s facility with a world-class hub for STEM, robotics, and engineering.
Fettes College in Edinburgh is set to modernize its STEM capabilities with the construction of a new Science and Innovation Centre. Funded by a multi-million-pound donation, the project will replace aging infrastructure from the 1970s with a world-class facility designed for contemporary scientific inquiry.
The new hub will integrate modern laboratories, collaborative learning spaces, and cutting-edge technology specifically tailored to support education in science, technology, robotics, and engineering. To ensure broad academic utility, the facility is designed to accommodate students across both GCSE/A Level and International Baccalaureate (IB) pathways.
Architectural Vision
Edinburgh-based architects Reiach and Hall are leading the design, which has reached RIBA Stage 3. While construction timelines remain pending awaiting planning approval, the architectural vision emphasizes simplicity, adaptability, and sustainability. The design utilizes a structured plan to connect modern labs and classrooms via open communal spaces, fostering a more fluid environment for student collaboration.
Strategic Context
This investment follows the recent opening of the Allardice Centre, a hub dedicated to student and staff wellbeing. The move comes as Fettes College continues to strengthen its academic standing; the school recently reported record-breaking A Level and IB results, maintaining its position as the top IB school in Scotland. Richard Girvan, Head of Fettes College, described the development as a reflection of the school's dedication to fostering a culture of creativity and achievement in vital fields of study.
Industry Implications
By replacing mid-century infrastructure with a specialized innovation hub, Fettes is signaling a strategic shift toward high-tech pedagogical needs. The specific focus on robotics and engineering suggests an effort to align independent education with the rapidly evolving demands of the global tech economy, ensuring students have access to professional-grade tools and environments that mirror industry standards.
Next Steps
The project now moves toward the planning approval phase. Once approved, the college will establish a formal construction timeline to transition from the current 1970s building to the new centre, marking a significant leap in the campus's scientific infrastructure.