On Wednesday 12th October 2016, Deputy First Minister John Swinney unveiled the foundation stone on the £45M William McIlvanney Campus in Kilmarnock, East Ayrshire.

Pupils from all of the schools amalgamating to create this innovative new campus were given the opportunity to fill time capsules with items representing each school and the burial then took place.

Due for completion in 2018 and named in honour of the world-reknowned author who was born and educated in the town, the Campus is being provided by East Ayrshire Council through the Government's Scotland's Schools for the future programme. 

Welcoming Mr. Swinney, Councillor Douglas Reid, Leader of East Ayrshire Council said: "I'm delighted the Deputy Minister has joined us to share in this important milestone and I know he shares my my view that this is a significant and ambitious investment for the young people and communities of Kilmarnock. 

William McIlvanney was passionate about the provision of good education for young people and the unveiling of the foundation stone marks another positive chapter in the development of this exciting story of Kilmarnock."

Members of William McIlvanney's family, including his partner Siobhan Lynch attended the event with MP's, MSP's, local elected members and a range of invited guests.