Community celebration for Smithton Primary School in Inverness as hundreds come out to see Highland Council's £4 million extension
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A COMMUNITY open day gave people a chance to have a look inside Smithton Primary’s £4 million extension.
Staff and teachers, along with pupils past and present were invited along to see inside the revamped Inverness school, as well as a display of old photographs of familiar faces.
Councillor Duncan Macpherson, ward councillor for Inverness South, said the day was a great success, and more than 200 people went along.
He added: “It was wonderful to see the school’s first head teacher, Nancy Scott, there as a guest of honour.
“She opened the first primary school in Smithton in 1974.
“Many of the people attending the community open day spent time with her, sharing so many good memories of school and the fun they had.
The school has already had an official opening but head teacher Aileen MacKay felt that the community should also be given a day where they could come along and see this brand new school extension.
“It really is something to be proud of.”
Ms Mackay said: “We have sincere thanks to all families, friends and colleagues past and present who made the day such a success.
“There was real family engagement as everyone explored the new school.
“The primary seven ambassadors were a credit to their parents. Colin Cameron, Jacek Szczypior and Jordan Hyslop from Morgan Sindall were all awarded trophies of excellence for their hard work and dedication to the project and thanks were expressed to all construction companies and Highland Council staff who initiated and created the changes to the buildings over the last 12 years.
“The building now reflects the wonderful community that is Smithton Primary.”
Construction started in July 2018 and comprised five new classrooms, pupil and staff toilets, an extension to the gym/dining hall, reception, offices and other facilities as well as improved car parking arrangements.
