Pupils are loving new look school

Kirknewton kids return

Pupils at Kirknewton Primary have been celebrating being back in their school following a £ 1.35 million refurbishment.

The official re-opening was held recently, after pupils spent a year sharing with East Calder Primary to allow the improvement programme to safely take place.

The special event featured music and speeches, before the unveiling of a plaque to commemorate the occasion.

Extensive work has taken place in the school, which was built in the 1920s, including creating a new enclosed general purpose space, disabled access improvements, installation of new electrical and heating systems and removal of asbestos. Executive councillor for culture and leisure Dave King, carried out the official opening.

He said: “I’m delighted to be able to officially reopen Kirknewton Primary School following the £1.35m refurbishment.

“It’s vital we ensure that our children have the right learning environment, and this major investment will ensure Kirknewton has the modern school facilities it deserves for the future.

“West Lothian has one of the best school estates in the country and the council is continuing to invest in our schools to give local pupils the best possible platform for education.”

Ki rknewton head teacher Eileen Brown added: “It’s great to be back in Kirknewton at the heart of our community.

“The children are all settling back into the school well, and the investment work has made a big difference by modernising our school environment.

“Thanks go to our whole school community for their patience during the refurbishment work, as well as East Calder Primary for generously hosting us for the 2015/16 term while the work was ongoing.”

The pro j e c t w a s managed by WLC’s Construction and Design team, while Livingstonbased Maxi Construction were appointed to carry out the works.

Maxi Construction boss, John Aitchison, said: “We are delighted to have successfully delivered the major refurbishment of Kirknewton Primary for West Lothian Council.

“In addition to the improved school facilities, numerous community benefits were also provided, including a donation to the Parent Staff Association, School Safety Poster Competition and formal training for members of our supply chain.”

It’s great to be back in Kirknewton