A NEW nursery at a Barrhead school has been given top marks by councillors.

An official opening ceremony took place at the nursery building linked to Cross Arthurlie Primary today.

Invited guests were treated to a performance by members of the choir before the nursery's 'dancing superstars' took centre stage for a special performance.

Although the nursery class has been open for 18 months, the special occasion gave staff and children the opportunity to show everyone in attendance how much they are loving their new building.

Councillor Andrew Anderson, East Renfrewshire's education convener, unveiled a commemorative plaque to mark the occasion.

He said: "I was delighted to have the opportunity to unveil a commemorative plaque to formally mark the opening of this wonderful facility.

"The quality of design and standard of work in creating this modern and inspiring nursery facility is plain to see.

"Considerate and innovative building design is important in helping to create the best conditions to provide excellent experiences for children to learn and staff to teach – and this nursery does just that."

A total of six new nurseries have been opened across East Renfrewshire as part of the council's commitment to expanding early learning and childcare provision.

Local authorities had previously provided 600 free hours a year but this has been increased to 1,140 hours by the Scottish Government, which is in effect a rise to 30 hours per week.

This matches the time children spend each week in primary school.

In addition to the nursery class at Cross Arthurlie Primary, the other new nurseries are a replacement for Glenwood Family Centre, new centres within the grounds of Busby Primary and Eaglesham Primary, Overlee Family Centre and Crookfur Family Centre.