Published: Friday, 5th March, 2010 2:00pm

Musical opening for new school

A STATE-of-the-art new school in Greenock was officially opened with a fanfare of music from pupils.

Secretary of State for Scotland Jim Murphy MP unveiled a plaque at Aileymill Primary School and Nursery.

The minister was also treated to a polished performance from members of the school's brass section and the Aileymill Music Makers.

The Aileymill Music Makers performed their own composition inspired by the building of the new school.

Mr Murphy, right, said it was fantastic Inverclyde had the two newest schools in the country - Aileymill and All Saints, in Greenock's east end.

He said: "This a fantastic modern school. This is an area on the way up, with new developments at the waterfront, new sports facilities and new schools.

"The pupils here at Aileymill have tartan ties and it's right they should be proud of Scotland and proud of their school. It is the pride of Greenock.

"Everyone involved with the building and opening of this new school should be proud of what they have started, because this is just the beginning.

"It's an entirely different way of education for local people. These young people can be the successful people of Greenock and further afield in the future."

Sharon Lightfoot, acting head teacher of Aileymill Nursery, paid tribute to all those involved in the move to the new building, and thanked the extended community of friends of Aileymill.

She said: "We are all absolutely delighted with new nursery and primary school. We are particularly impressed by the standard to which the school has been built. It really is a school for the 21st century."