Three schools in the north of Scotland are to be replaced as part of a £1.25billion school building programme.

Ellon Academy and Mearns Academy in Aberdeenshire, along with Wick High School in the Highlands are among 14 schools across the country to receive funding.

The Scottish Government say the cash boost will benefit over 12,000 pupils.

Education Minister Fiona Hyslop said: "This Government and local authorities are already on track to lift 100,000 school pupils, by 2011, out of tired and crumbling school buildings and classrooms and providing them with cutting-edge accommodation and facilities in which to continue their 21st century education.

"Today's announcement is the latest step towards going even further and demonstrates our continued commitment to providing every pupil with the same high quality experience for their school building.

"In June I announced the new £1.25bn school building programme which will, with #800m of Scottish Government capital investment, deliver 55 new schools for Scotland.

Speaking in his capacity as Gordon MSP, First Minister Alex Salmond heralded the news that Ellon was to receive a new secondary school.

Mr Salmond said: “In my visits to the Academy as the local MSP, it has been clear that the school has been operating well beyond its building limits for many years. The SNP Government has responded to this and now a first class facility will be delivered for the school children of Ellon.
 
“I would also like to pay tribute to the School’s Rector Tim McKay. Despite the limitations of the present accommodation, Tim and his staff have succeeded in creating a very positive learning environment for their pupils. This investment will ensure that the future pupils of Ellon Academy will have a building which matches the ambition of the school.”