Work has commenced on a new £4.3m replacement teaching block at Onthank Primary School and and Early Childhood Centre.

Giants cranes have been on the East Ayrshire site since last month, and have already lifted the first modules into place. The modern single-storey extension will have large picture windows to allow for a bright, attractive learning and teaching environment for both pupils and teachers.

Linked to the main school building by a glass-covered, enclosed walkway, the new facility will have six primary classrooms, an early childhood centre for 120 children with wraparound facilities for a further 10. There will also be staff accommodation, toilets and storage areas, as well as a courtyard with a soft play area for the youngest pupils to enjoy. The existing Onthank ECC garden will be retained for outdoor learning.


It is hoped the new facility will be ready for use by August 2014.

Councillor Douglas Reid said: "I'm delighted with the progress on this new building, which will provide high-quality additional accommodation for Onthank PS and Early Childhood Centre.

"The modular construction means that the extension will be completed in good time to welcome pupils after the summer holidays, to start the new term in the type of fantastic new classrooms these youngsters deserve."

Headteacher of Onthank, Steven Banks, added: "We are really looking forward to having this fantastic new block. The builders have been great and are very keen to work with the children and the local community. People can see what is happening onsite day by day, as work progresses apace."

(JP)