The state-of-the-art primary school was handed over to Midlothian Council by its development partner Hub South East on Wednesday, meaning staff and pupils will be able to enjoy their new learning space for the start of the new school term in August 2024.

Midlothian Council’s cabinet member for education, Councillor Ellen Scott, said: “This is everything we could have hoped for, a wonderful learning environment for local children and a new focal point for the community. We can’t wait to show people round the school on Tuesday 13 August and welcome the first pupils through the door the day after.”

The project was delivered on behalf of the council by Hub South East, with Morrison Construction as the lead contractor and jmarchitects behind the design.

The new school, on the site of the old Newbattle High School, can accommodate 459 children. There are 16 places to support children with Additional Support Needs (ASN) from across Midlothian, and 80 pre-school places. Sixty seven pupils will be attending on the first day of the new term along with 80 pre-school children.

Two wings are linked by a shared space with dining facilities, a multi-purpose hall, an arts/movement space, offices and support facilities.

Andrew Thornton, Hub South East’s project director, said: “We’re delighted to have successfully handed over Midlothian Council’s latest investment in its education estate. The new Easthouses Primary school is going to make a real positive difference to the learner journey of its young people when it opens in the new school term.

“As a true development partner, Hub is keen on ensuring a lasting legacy beyond construction. We’re particularly proud to have worked with the council to identify local priorities and develop a bespoke programme of activities to support this, ensuring the realisation of social impact locally, including support for a number of local community groups, work experience, local employment and apprenticeships.”

David Ewing, managing director for Morrison Construction Building Central, added: “The new Easthouses Primary School is a fantastic example of a flexible school, capable of dealing with the needs of mainstream students, ASN students, and pre-school children.

“We are once again pleased to have worked with Midlothian Council and Hub South East to deliver an exceptional project in the region on time and budget, and we look forward to the arrival of the new students.”

An open day, with tours of the new building, has been arranged for Tuesday 13 August.