Lord Provost John Letford has officially opened the first school constructed under Dundee City Council's £90m Public Private Partnership (PPP) scheme.

Claypotts Castle Primary held a celebration event to mark the historic occasion. The last new school to be opened in Dundee was over 30 years ago in 1974.

The Lord Provost said: "This is a great day for Claypotts Castle Primary and everyone associated with the school.

"We are investing in the future of the city by building these new schools and I am delighted to be involved in such a tremendous occasion. This event is a colourful celebration of a very proud school community."

City Council education convener Cllr Laurie Bidwell added: "The official opening of Claypotts Castle Primary is a major milestone in Dundee City Council's commitment to provide new schools for the city and create positive learning and teaching environments.

"Claypotts Castle Primary School is a shining example of the first-rate facilities that are being constructed as part of our drive to enhance the attainment and achievement of our children.


"This is a day of celebration to mark a very special event in the life of the school and the wider community. I am sure that everyone is looking forward with confidence."

The two-stream Claypotts Castle Primary, with nursery, has 14 classrooms, associated resource rooms, a music/drama studio, stage, assembly hall and gym, as well as a range of community facilities.

The entrance area of the school features two impressive stained glass panels designed by pupils with the assistance of an artist. The school opened its doors for business in May.

Claypotts Castle Primary is one of four new primaries that will be officially opened before Christmas. Downfield, St Andrew's and Craigowl primaries also opened for pupils in August.

In total, six primary and two secondary schools are being delivered for Dundee City Council under the £90m PPP project by the Discovery Education consortium. This includes Robertson Capital Projects, Robertson Tayside, Robertson Central, Sir Robert McAlpine and Robertson Facilities Management.

Robertson executive chairman Bill Robertson, said: "We are delighted to be part of Dundee Council's celebrations today to officially open this new modern educational facility.

"From the design stage through to construction, we have remained focused on creating purpose-built premises which contribute positively to the learning outcomes of local children.

"We continue to strengthen our relationship with Dundee City Council throughout the second phase of the project which will deliver a further two primary and two secondary schools as well as working in partnership with the council over the next 30 years via the provision of facilities services."

Next year, the second phase will see the completion of the Grove Academy replacement and the openings of Fintry and Rowantree primaries as well as St Paul's Academy.

(GK/JM)