New era in learning is launched with the opening of £890,000 extension at county primary

Sep 25 2008 by Marjorie Kerr, West Lothian Courier

BUILDING the future of learning has brought about the extension of a West Lothian school.

Williamston Primary School in Livingston, now has a new classroom, gym hall, separate changing rooms and extra toilets to help satisfy the demands of a growing school roll.

Building work on the site started in November 2007 and was completed last month and the official opening of the new facilities was carried out by West Lothian Council leader Peter Johnston this week.

West Lothian Council provided the £890,000 to fund the project through the capital programme.

The school’s Fundraising Committee also raised cash to buy additional equipment for the gym hall.

Council leader Peter Johnston said the extension was part of a bid to improve schools in the county.

He said: “We have a growing population in West Lothian and we are committed to providing first-rate facilities where pupils can enjoy their schooling.

“It is important that we create learning communities within our schools, which are focused on providing suitable environments for learning and increase social inclusion, with the active involvement of all pupils, parents and school staff.

“Communities across West Lothian will benefit greatly from our capital funds programme and we are allocating additional resources and pledging investment in a wide range of projects.

“It clearly underlines our commitment to deliver better council services and provide improved facilities across West Lothian.

“The school's Fundraising Committee have helped provide a substantial amount of funding for the new hall equipment and they deserve a tremendous amount of credit for their efforts, which will benefit pupils for many years to come.”

Headteacher Arlene Black said the revamp of the Murieston school marked its quarter century anniversary.

She said: “The new facilities are excellent and we are delighted that our pupils and staff can now take advantage of them.

“The extension also marks the school’s 25th anniversary so we look upon this event as a double celebration.”