The old school on Værøy is one of the most beautiful buildings in Norway from the 1960s. The building was designed by Tobias Ritzau who also designed the listed buildings in Sortland; the Town Hall and the cinema. In addition to restoration and reconstruction, the old school has also been given new functions, where, among other things, the gymnasium has become the Cultural Hall.

Due to a lack of maintenance over many years, there have been divided opinions on whether the old school should be demolished or preserved. Fortunately, the building was saved from demolition as the County Council's cultural heritage department was able to determine its architectural quality and local historical significance, which the municipal council ultimately agreed with.

NSW Architecture was both the driving force behind the preservation and has been tasked with designing and improving the school buildings.