Robertson Tayside has started work to build two new primary schools in Perth & Kinross.

The new facilities in Kinross and Tulloch are part of a £55 million investment programme jointly funded by the local authority and the Scottish Government, which also includes a new secondary school at Bertha Park in Perth.

The new Tulloch Primary School will have 14 open plan teaching zones with capacity for 434 pupils along with an increase in nursery provision to 40 children. In addition, a new and improved Additional Support Needs (ASN) base and nurture provision will also be built.

Kinross Primary School will see an increase in capacity to 566 pupils, featuring a dedicated nursery provision for 64 children. Along with 18 open-plan teaching zones, within the school there will also be a dedicated gym hall and separate dining facilities.

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Both schools will see their external play areas transformed with a grass pitch, Multi Use Games Area (MUGA), outdoor teaching facilities and eco-features. Improved pupil drop-off facilities and enhanced parking will also be developed.

To mark the start of major construction works, Deputy First Minister (DFM) John Swinney visited the sites today, 20 January.

During his visit, Mr Swinney viewed the sites as well as the progress of the steel frames currently being installed.

The DFM said: "I have seen first-hand the transformational effect of new school buildings. Modern, state of the art facilities can inspire students, staff and parents and make a positive difference to learning outcomes.

"That which is why this Government remains committed to improving schools in Perth and Kinross and throughout the country. Our £1.8 billion Schools for the Future programme will see the construction or refurbishment of 112 schools with a new project delivered in every local authority area, benefitting over 60,000 pupils by March 2020."

Kevin Dickson, Regional Managing Director of Robertson Tayside, added: "This marks the first stage of what will be a transformational project for the region.

"Once complete, over one thousand young people will reap the benefits of state of the art learning facilities at the new Kinross Primary School and Tulloch Primary School. Robertson has extensive experience in delivering projects of this type and we look forward to successfully delivering both schools to the council."

(LM)