Schools mark new £11.5m campus merger
Halfmerke and West Mains under one roof
Two East Kilbride schools celebrated being under one roof with an official opening party at their spectacular new-look £11.5 million campus.
Halfmerke and West Mains primaries marked the momentous merger by welcoming invited guests for a day full of festivities.
And East Kilbride Central North councillor Hugh Macdonald acknowledged: “This is a very special day for all pupils here.”
Kids sang Scottish songs and performed a range of circus skills as guests arrived before Halfmerke head teacher Karen Douglas and Christine Shaw, acting head of West Mains, started proceedings.
Pupil hosts Aydin Sahin-Gemmell, Abi McMillan and Murphy Woods then took over the mantle and the audience was treated to the ‘world premiere’ of a movie written, directed and filmed by primary seven pupils and starring senior students from both schools.
A joint West Mains and Halfmerke choir then sang a rousing rendition of the classic ‘Jeely Piece’ song.
Learners from both schools then shared with the audience their dreams and aspirations for the future – and detailed how the schools equip them with the skills necessary to succeed.
West Mains school’s African Drumming Group introduced Room 4 pupils who performed a street dance, choreographed and taught by a P4 youngster.
A joint cohort from both schools then took to the stage to share some explosive facts about their interdisciplinary learning topic on Our Dynamic Earth.
To round off this part of the celebrations, primaries one and two entertained with a comical circus song about clowns.
Councillor Macdonald then carried out the official business of unveiling the school plaques.
“I must say that the entertainment by the pupils was absolutely magnificent,” he said.
“This is a very special day for all pupils here. They will go down in history for being the first pupils taught in this groundbreaking campus that truly demonstrates partnership working at its best.
“It’s evident from the minute you walk through the doors that although there are two schools here they are both learning together to achieve.
“This impressive £11.5m building gives all pupils the very best learning environment which celebrates diversity. The schools have inclusive, joint activities, integrated lunchtimes and mentoring and buddying are encouraged to build confidence in all pupils.
“Well done to all involved in the design and build of this building and to all the staff who work daily to ensure all pupils become the best they can be.”
Councillor Macdonald unveiled the plaque for Halfmerke Primary with assistance from pupils Christopher Tipping, Luke Tipping and Mackela Wilson.
Jamie Reid and Trudy Sommerville assisted him with the unveiling of West Mains Primary’s plaque.
The afternoon ended with all pupils singing about their school.
Both head teachers said they were extremely proud of all the pupils who ‘excelled in showcasing learning together’ on the day.