While thousands of pupils from over 50 local authority schools across Scotland have benefited from taking part in FIDA projects or using our resources since its launch, a significant limiting factor is the lack of a purpose-built educational centre designed to enable and fully realise the potential of our interdisciplinary way of working. Without a dedicated building, we can only offer these opportunities in traditional, single-subject facilities which are not fit-for-purpose for FIDA. What we need now are teaching and learning spaces where young people can think, design, create, test, collaborate and communicate, all integrated under one roof.

As a result, we are fundraising for our Futures Institute building; a pioneering new learning centre, within which our FIDA initiative can thrive. The building, which received planning permission in July 2023, has been designed by world-renowned architect and Dollar Academy Former Pupil Andrew Whalley OBE, and will offer a compelling alternative to traditional classroom settings.

We are working to a total project cost of £12.6m and with over 80% of the required funding in place, the FIDA fundraising campaign has been Dollar Academy’s most successful to date.

But we must not rest on our laurels! Any donation, whatever the level, is hugely appreciated. As a supporter, you will receive updates about the building’s progress, the wider FIDA initiative, and how your support is making a difference. In addition, you will be invited to the building’s opening ceremony.

For donations of £250 and over we are offering you the opportunity to have your name on our Donor Recognition Wall located within the Futures Institute building. This will be a permanent installation and designed by the young people involved in our FIDA challenges. Being on our donor wall means your name will forever be part of the school.

We welcome donations of any size, the following however provides a guide on how your generous gift could help: