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Opening of new eco-school
14/11/2007
A new environmentally friendly school in East Lothian was officially opened today.
Windygoul Primary, in Tranent, provides education from nursery through to primary 7. The single-storey, eco-friendly building has been designed to minimise energy use and provide a healthy internal environment.
Opening the school, First Minister Alex Salmond said:
"Windygoul Primary School is a great example of how we can grow our environmental ambitions in our schools. This is an inspirational learning environment made possible by the commitment and dedication of staff, parents and the local council.
"It is also a great example of the sort of innovative, community-centred funding options that we are keen to encourage. By identifying mutual interests and working together The Walker Group and the Council have managed to develop the area and offer local children a safe and exciting learning-ground.
"This government is determined to deliver a greener future. Now some of the seeds of that future can be sown in Tranent, with pupils being taught to make use of Scotland's natural resources and respect their environment. The work of the schools Eco Group is just one example of the way young people can be encouraged to engage with these issues.
"This school is a positive resource that will bring benefits not only to the children who attend but to the whole community. That is why I am delighted to be here today and to declare Windygoul Primary School officially open."
Natural ventilation and materials together with external 'breathing' walls help to provide a toxin free atmosphere within the school, while solar panels help to heat water and provide electricity.
Features also include a green 'living roof' of sedum and special control panels which allow the pupils to monitor the amount of energy the school has generated.
Windygoul Primary School was funded through collaboration between Walker Group and East Lothian Council. Walker Group worked with the council to develop the vision for the new residential development at west Windygoul. Part of that vision was the provision of a new primary school.
Walker Group agreed a proportionate share of the funding costs, while responsibility for the design and construction of the school was retained by the council.
The school cost a total of £7.3 million to construct.
Windygoul Primary School opened to pupils in April 2007 and has a current roll of 341 primary pupils and 87 nursery pupils. There is a staff of 45.
The school has capacity for 392 primary pupils and 100 nursery children.