A NEW £15million primary school in East Renfrewshire has been officially opened.

Maidenhill Primary and Nursery Class has been in operation since August last year but has now been given a formal seal of approval with the unveiling of a commemorative plaque.

With more than 800 homes to be built in the surrounding area in the coming years, the Newton Mearns school has been established so that East Renfrewshire Council can address the increased demand for primary and nursery places.

Alasdair McDonald, headteacher at Maidenhill Primary, added: “It’s an absolute privilege to lead this fantastic new community.

“The facilities are undoubtedly fantastic and play such an important part in supporting our pupils in their learning.

“A school is so much more than bricks and mortar, though, and we are enjoying building this new community together with children, families and staff – work which will continue in the months and years ahead.”