It is hoped the schools will open between 2008 and 2010

Axiom Education will take forward the design, construction and operation of six new education campuses.

The firm was appointed to the PFI project, which received �100m in cash from ministers, by the local council.

It will result in several new primary and secondary schools in Perth and Kinross, as well as nursery and community facilities.

Perth and Kinross Council leader Jimmy Doig said the public private partnership project was the biggest and most important embarked upon by the local authority.

He said: "This council is confident that the partnership we have with Axiom Education will deliver modern, 21st century learning and community facilities for Perth and Kinross.

SCHOOLS PROPOSALS Aberfeldy - replacing Breadalbane Academy Blairgowrie - replacing Hill Primary School and St Stephen's Primary School Crieff - replacing Crieff High School Kinross - replacing Kinross High School Perth - replacing St Columba's High School and St John's Primary School Perth South - replacing Caledonian Road Primary School and Friarton Nursery All primary schools being built will have nursery services

"This is especially so given their extensive prior experience.

"A great deal of work has been undertaken to reach this major milestone in the project and there will be much more to come in the months ahead."

Detailed planning applications for the campuses will now be submitted to the council and the plans will go on public display.

If approved by councillors, building is expected to begin in the autumn, with the new schools opening between 2008 and 2010.

Axiom Education project director Eilidh Mactaggart said: "Axiom Education is very pleased to be announced as preferred bidder and looks forward to continuing to work in partnership with Perth and Kinross Council to provide the area with six community campuses that everyone can be proud of."