EXCITED pupils returned to Barrhead’s newly-named Hillview Primary with a spring in their step.

Dozens of youngsters were reunited with one another as they started back for the new term last week, while the new crop of P1s enjoyed their first day at school.

Formerly known as Springhill and Auchenback Primary, the new title was chosen by pupils, parents and teachers after it was decided the old moniker was too long.

Hillview Primary was the result of a decision-making process involving assemblies, meetings and every staff member – with 80 per cent of pupils and 65 per cent of mums and dads in favour of the new name.

Arty youngsters then designed the new badge, which contained similar patterns to the previous crest.

Janette Black, head teacher at Hillview Primary, told the Barrhead News: “It was fantastic to get the children back.

“It’s always great to see them after the summer, see how much they’ve grown up and to meet the intake of the P1s.

“They’ve settled in so well but that’s in part because we’ve met them through our infant induction programme. It’s been fantastic having our new P1s.

“There haven’t been a lot of changes. The badge was the main thing – the children were very keen to keep the badge very similar.”

East Renfrewshire Council confirmed the school’s uniforms will also be changed in phases to allow youngsters and parents to have a say in its look and make it easier for rising costs to be met.