The first intake of pupils began their lessons at Aberdeen’s new £47 million school yesterday.
The facilities at the 1,350 capacity Lochside Academy, which replaces the old Torry and Kincorth academies, include a swimming pool, dance studio and sports pitches.
Now the largest school in Aberdeen, the three-storey Lochside has been hailed as a “school fit for the 21st century” by education bosses.
But concerns have been raised about the safety of pupils walking to the new school in the Cove area of the city.
Some parents have complained that youngsters will have to negotiate six-feet wide puddles in the dark as drainage and lighting issues are still being sorted.
However, roadside barriers and several pedestrian crossings have been installed by council chiefs in the lead up to the opening of the school.
Elsewhere in the city the new £13million Stoneywood primary opened with a capacity for 434 pupils.
The single-storey building, built on the site of the old Bankhead academy facilities, including a large nursery, library and sensory room.
Council education convener John Wheeler said: “It’s brilliant to see Lochside Academy open to over 1000 pupils and staff today, each and every one of whom I’m sure will be thrilled with their first taste of fantastic facilities at their landmark new home. And in due course, the wider community will be able to enjoy some of the facilities on offer too, making the academy a real focal point for the community.
“I am equally delighted with the successful opening of Stoneywood School too and I’m just as certain that our younger pupils and their parents and guardians will love their new school, its facilities and its lovely outdoor idea. Our £60 million investment in the these schools has really paid off and we have facilities the city can be proud of.”
