Craigbank primary kids show off singing voices at official opening

Nov 19 2009 by Gary Fanning, Hamilton Advertiser

YOUNGSTERS at a Larkhall primary hit the right notes at the school’s official opening ceremony.

Guests were treated to magnificent singing performances by all pupils at Craigbank Primary in Glengonnar Street, Strutherhill.

The talented youngsters sang a whole host of songs including ‘Consider Yourself’ from the hit musical Oliver and 'A Whole New World' from Aladdin, as well as traditional Scottish songs and poetry and finishing with a rousing rendition of Robert Burns’ ‘Auld Lang Syne’.

Headteacher Mrs Rita Wright, said: "We are absolutely delighted with our new school and have settled in well.

“I'd like to thank all at South Lanarkshire Council and at Morgan Ashurst for designing and building this fantastic school.

"I'd also like to thank the entire Craigbank Primary School family - pupils, teachers, all support, janitorial, cleaning and catering staff, our parents and the wider community for their continued support.

"I am incredibly proud of the talent which exists here at Craigbank Primary School - all the boys and girls have performed exceptionally well and it's testament to the dedication and hard work which the pupils and all the staff have put in over the past few months."

Labour councillor Jackie Burns, the council's spokesman on youth issues, carried out the unveiling of a plaque to formally open the new school.

“It is great to see so many of the children, teachers and friends of the school here to take part in this celebration.

“Craigbank Primary School is a school where everyone works together to ensure all children are given the chance to thrive, be successful and all are encouraged with their families to celebrate their fantastic achievements.”

The ceremony finished with a resounding rendition of Auld Lang Syne and in the words of the pupils, "so many hearts make a school."

The school was rebuilt as part of South Lanarkshire Council's £850 million Primary Schools’ Modernisation Programme, which will see each of the area's 124 primary schools being rebuilt or refurbished. This means that by 2017 all of South Lanarkshire's primary schools will be fully equipped for 21st century learning.

Work on the new £6 million Craigbank Primary School started in August 2007 and pupils and staff moved into the new building in May 2008.

The brand new Craigbank Primary School, constructed by Morgan Ashurst, includes seven classrooms, separate gym and dining halls, attractive bright library, state-of-the-art computer suite and a range of accommodation for parents, visiting services and school staff.

The new building also incorporates a community wing, including dedicated accommodation and associated office and welfare facilities which are well used by the local community.

Externally the new school boasts an all weather pitch which is used by the school during the day, and is well used by the community in the evenings and weekends.