Cafe and arts centre. Venue, story hub and dance floor. Kitchen, garden, gallery, theatre, cat-walk, kid’s club and kino…
Oban’s community centre
Your Rockfield
Who we are
From 1877 to today
On a rocky lawn known as Thomas’ Park, what was to open in 1877 as The New Public School was designated by the Burgh Board.
The building was designed by Alexander McQueen to accommodate 420 students before a series of extensions.
It served as a school until 2007, was nearly demolished but saved by the efforts the local community.
An extensive renovation project followed that restored the site’s heritage features whilst brining it up to modern standards.
Since it re-opened its doors it has operated as a hub for the community.
It serves as a source of a warmth, soup and community spirit. Every month it plays host to a variety of educational, artistic and entertainment talent from Soroba to Tanzania.
Each day brings something new, reflecting Oban’s far reaching and dynamic community. And as the community evolves, the Rockfield will evolve with it to continue to provide opportunities for expression, connection, wellbeing and not least a bit of craic.
Behind our success is our fantastic volunteer team who help and support our small staff team in a variety of roles.
We are always on the lookout for new volunteers to lend their time and skills to support the centre and and provide a warm and welcoming space for all.
Interested?
Volunteer with us
24th September 2025
Members come for a meal together and optional tour of the building to see what we’ve been up to these twelve months.
This will be followed by a public AGM to look over accounts, elect and engage with the trustees and have a say in whats next for the community owned Rockfield Centre.
AGM
The Trustees
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Stacey Felgate
Stacey is an environmental scientist who focusses on community-led development work. She has experience manging projects, obtaining grants, and working with a range of partners. She has a Modern Apprenticeship in Hospitality Management, a sommelier qualification, and has extensive experience working in bars, cafes, and eateries.
“Rockfield is an amazing place, and the community really needs it! Let’s work together to keep it open, viable, and vibrant!”
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Karen Lindsay
Karen holds a degree in hospitality management from Napier University and has worked in and around hospitality for over 40 years. She owns a local business specialising in Scottish Craft Beer and organises an annual Beer Festival (now in year 5!).
“I’m keen to share my experience and help maximise the centre’s potential and steer it forward into a new phase of its development.”
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Johnny Gillies
Jonny grew up locally, and recently moved back to Oban after 15 years in Glasgow. He works remotely as a Software Engineer for Edinburgh Airport. He also brings a wealth of experience as a successful DJ and event promoter.
“I’m looking forward to getting more involved in the community and helping out where I can. I’m loving the space so far and excited to see what the future holds”
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Neil McCorrisken
Neil has a wealth of experience which includes creating community cultural projects in Liverpool and Bristol, working in sound, lighting, and logistics at arts venues and music festivals, and volunteering within the community.
“I’m passionate about being involved in TRC, striving for good things and having the place full of activities, events and community projects from our talented locals to international guests”
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Renuka Ramanujam
Renuka Ramanujam is an artist and creative entrepreneur with a background in textiles & printmaking. She lectures at Central Saint Martins, facilitates community arts workshops, and started a design innovation venture, HUID. Renuka has also been a tutor at The Rockfield Centre since October 2021, hosting the Open Draw amongst other events.
“Rockfield should be an accessible, welcoming platform for the local community to enjoy a fantastic array of arts”
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Could this be you?
We are looking for more community-minded folk to join us on our mission to fill The Rockfield Centre (and it’s garden) with life - making it a hub for wellbeing, arts, culture, heritage, and community-focussed activity that feels like home to all who use it.
If you’d like to help, please get in touch in the form below.