The first phase of the £12.6 million Arbroath Schools project culminated in the official opening of another new primary on Tuesday.
Warddykes PS joined the town’s schools estate and follows the new Timmergreens, which was officially opened a week earlier.
Three other local schools are to be replaced in future — Hayshead, Ladyloan and Muirfield.
Councillor Sheena Welsh, convener of children and learning, said she was “delighted” to unveil the building.
She said: “It will provide a wonderful environment for all its pupils and staff. I am certain they will all flourish in their new 21st Century surroundings.
“Like the children, I have watched on with great interest and enthusiasm, and even made regular visits to the site, as the new school took shape.
“It is a facility that we can all be proud of and I am sure it will serve this community wonderfully well over the generations to come. This is a significant and very worthwhile investment in our schools and our children.
“Warddykes has been built-for-purpose and that purpose is to play a vital role in the development of our young people. I am sure they will all gain knowledge, enjoyment and great memories during their time here.”
Head teacher Alison Galloway welcomed pupils and staff to the ceremony, along with the Rev Martin Fair from St Andrew’s Church and Dave Webster from Arbroath Town Mission, and representatives from contractors Robertson Tayside and procurement partners Hub East Central Scotland.
The former Warddykes was 47 years old and its replacement has 11 classrooms for 280-plus pupils and a nursery that can accommodate up to 40 children.
There is a multi-purpose hall, dining hall and library, as well as general purpose rooms and tutorial spaces.
Dave Barber of Robertson Tayside said: “The official opening of Warddykes Primary School, as with Timmergreens, means that young people in Angus are now learning in bright, welcoming surroundings to give them every chance to succeed in their development.”
