PARENTS have criticised a move to change the name of a Barrhead school just five years after it was founded.

Details of the plans for Springhill and Auchenback Primary emerged when parents were sent a letter outlining six potential new names, which has since been whittled down to three.

The Barrhead News understands the options are Springhill Primary, Hillview Primary or Barrhead Primary, with the new name to be chosen in time for pupils’ return from the summer break.

It is thought the school wishes to change its name because staff believe the current moniker – created by the merger of Auchenback and Springhill Primaries in 2012 – is too long.

The plans sparked fierce debate amongst parents online, with some perplexed Facebook users saying the school should instead spend time and money on its pupils’ education instead.

However, other parents support the plans.

The proposals were raised online by a member of the Springhill and Auchenback Primary Parent Council.

The mum, who asked not to be named, said: “It’s not something the parents have asked for but it will be enforced by the new term.

“The school hasn’t asked for feedback on this but I think it’s important to get feedback from the community as it’s been in the community for so long.

“The reasoning, from what the parent council and parents understand, is that the school name is too long so no one ever uses it.

“So the head would like a name that would be used fully. There are new uniforms which will be enforced in the new term and that’s been confirmed.

“Parents received a letter from the school with a selection of six names that have been finalised. We have been asked to vote.”

The parent council member added: “The children will be asked to vote and then we will find out the new name of the school. Parents have mixed feelings about it.

“Some want it to remain as it is, others would like to see it go back to Springhill and a select few would vote for something completely new.”

A number of other responses to the proposal have emerged online.

Facebook user Kimberly McArthur Farrell wrote: “A lot of nonsense. Leave as it is, will just cause a whole lot of upheaval.”

Kari Pearce said: “Waste of time and money and isn’t necessary. The education and support the children receive is what matters, not what their school is called.”

However, Gary McEnhill was in favour of a change, and said: “The current name is too long. Change it back to Springhill.

“Soon, if not already, none of the pupils in the school would have attended Auchenback Primary so don’t see the need to keep it in the title.”

East Renfrewshire Council has confirmed discussions are ongoing over the possible name change.

A spokesman said: “Early stages of consultation are being held to gather views on a potential proposal to change the name of Springhill and Auchenback Primary.

“We will consult with all relevant stakeholders, including pupils, parents, parent councils and others, before any proposal is taken to a future Education Committee for a decision.”