06 July 2021

Upgrades to Gordon Primary School Nursery worth £2.4m now complete

Improvements worth £2.4million to Gordon Primary School Nursery are now completed.

The plans saw the construction of a new nursery on the grounds of Gordon Primary School, the creation of two additional primary one classrooms, upgrades to the toilets and the demolition of temporary accommodation.

A sensory space and places for outdoor learning and play have been created along with areas for growing vegetables and herbs. Inside, the state-of-the-art classrooms boast new sinks, worktops, and carpets and there are doors allowing access to the garden and play area outside. 

Gordon Primary School head teacher Debbie Ewen said: “The children will benefit from the learning both inside and outside and the large classrooms and outdoor area gives more opportunity for play-based learning to support nurture as children learn and develop.”

The nursery has continued to run despite the Coronavirus pandemic and the resultant restrictions to combat it.

“During Covid-19, the large rooms were divided into two to ensure children have a safe, ‘bubbled’ experience in the nursery”, Ms Ewen added.

The nursery will be among those across Aberdeenshire offering the Scottish Government’s 1140 free hours of early learning and childcare by August.

“Families will benefit from the extended hours as they will have more flexibility in childcare arrangements to help accommodate their work pattern or family commitments. We are committed to providing a nurturing environment with caring staff who can support children, some of whom may be here for whole days in the setting. We would like to thank all our staff, parents and children who have supported us through this year and hope that you are excited to continue our journey with us,” said Julia Matthew, Aberdeenshire Council’s Quality Improvement Manager for Early Years.

Members of the Marr Area Committee approved the plans and the business case in May 2018, planning permission was granted in October 2018 and construction began in August 2019.