New £12.8m school with outdoor classroom and orchard opens up

During lockdown, Elgin’s Linkwood Primary will welcome the children of key workers alongside vulnerable youngsters.

Jenness Mitchell

14th Jan 2021

A new £12.8m school has opened its doors in Moray.

During lockdown, Elgin’s Linkwood Primary will welcome around 50 pupils made up of the children of key workers alongside vulnerable youngsters.

Moray Council said the rest of the students will move into the new building when restrictions allow.

The new campus, which replaces the existing Linwood Primary facility based at the East End School annexe, is able to accommodate more than 400 pupils, including ASN provision for up to 12 youngsters, with space for 40 children in the nursery.

It features a roof terrace, secure outside games and play areas, an outdoor classroom, and an orchard and planting to attract wildlife with bug hotels around the school grounds.

Councillor Sonya Warren, chair of the council’s Children & Young People’s Services Committee, believes the multi-million pound investment will benefit generations of learners.

She said: “With the significant development in the area, it’s vital that we have a modern learning environment to support our pupils and take its place in the community.

“After a tough year for learners, to come back to new classrooms, in a new purpose-built school, will be such a boost.”

Headteacher Fiona Stevenson added: “We’re thrilled to be in our new school.

“It’s been a meaningful experience for the pupils to watch their new school being built, and I’m looking forward to the return of all our learners so we can enjoy the fantastic space and facilities here at Linkwood.”