Brand new day for school pupils

West Lothian’s newest school opened its doors to children this week.

The first pupils arrived at the brand new Southdale Primary School in Armadale for the first day of the new term on Tuesday.

West Lothian Council spent £7.5 million to build the impressive new school, which will provide quality education for Armadale’s growing population.

Construction work was completed on time and on budget and families who attended the recent open session commented at the school’s bright and open design.

Headteacher Geraldine Armstrong said: “It is a privilege to be the headteacher at Southdale Primary School and it was fantastic to welcome our first group of children to the school.

“This is a very exciting time for parents, children, staff and the local community. My staff team will endeavour to deliver the highest standards of education in this new state-of-the-art building.”

Executive councillor for education Lawrence Fitzpatrick asaid: “For the parents and carers of our P1 pupils the first day at school is a momentous and proud day and I’m delighted that their children have been able to arrive for their first day at the fantastic Southdale Primary School."

The school has been constructed in phases, with the first phase including classrooms, GP rooms, nursery facilities, gym, dining and additional accommodation sized to suit more classes.

It has been designed to save energy, with solar panels being put on the roof and greatly increased insulation.

The building has been designed to ensure the school can continue to grow in pairs of classrooms to meet the needs of housing developments.