News / From secondary to primary
PRIMARY pupils in Scalloway have now moved into the village’s old secondary department following an extensive refurbishment.
The move allows the former primary school to be converted into a new health centre, which is expected to be completed by the end of the year.
The changes were set in motion after councillors made the hugely unpopular decision in December 2010 to close Scalloway junior high school, saving the local authority around £700,000 a year.
The two phase project to create a new Scalloway health centre, refurbish the 124 pupil primary school and nursery is estimated to cost around £2 million, funded by the Scottish government.
Hame fae Hame Childcare, currently based on Main Street, Scalloway, will also relocate into the areas formerly occupied by the Nursery, P1 and P2 classes.
Substantial work is still underway outside the buildings to alter the car parking layout and road access through the site.
The development of new play areas is also being considered, in partnership with the parent council. Fundraising is underway and advice and ideas are being gathered.
Head teacher Morag Fox said: “This had been a long process and the outcome for the school and nursery has been worth waiting for – pupils and staff are delighted with the newly decorated areas.”
Shetland Islands Council education and families committee chairwoman Vaila Wishart said: “This joint project with NHS Shetland also sees a cost-effective re-use of a substantial public building in Scalloway.”
Scalloway primary school and nursery will hold an open day on Saturday 7 March from 10.30am – 12.30pm.
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