PUPILS at an additional support needs school in North Lanarkshire welcomed the opening of a new teaching area last week.

Drumpark Primary School, in Coatbridge, celebrated the opening of the bright and spacious new space at an event on Thursday, February 24.

It’s part of a council’s plan to provide better teaching environments for pupils with additional support needs.

To mark the occasion, Councillor Frank McNally, convener of education, unveiled a plaque in front of pupils, staff and invited guests.

READ MORE: Roads around Glasgow to get £1 million for improvement works

Glasgow Times: The new teaching area is part of a North Lanarkshire Council plan to improve learning environments for pupils with additional support needsThe new teaching area is part of a North Lanarkshire Council plan to improve learning environments for pupils with additional support needs

He said: “We are determined to provide all our young people with the best start in life, and this new teaching area within Drumpark Primary School is a clear example of our ambition to provide all our young people with first-class learning environments.

“We are committed to improving standards within our Additional Support Needs schools and nurseries and this development is just one of a number of areas where we are taking action.”

In late 2020, North Lanarkshire Council agreed to an overhaul of the Additional Support Needs (ASN) sector to improve the quality of education and the future life opportunities of young people it caters to.

READ MORE: A north Glasgow housing association is looking for new board members

Among the recommendations were that Mavisbank School primary children are relocated to Drumpark Primary School, as part of a planned development within the school.

Gillian Pollock, Head Teacher of Drumpark Primary School, said: “The new area really is a fantastic new addition to the school.

"It provides us with a superb new teaching area as well as additional capacity as we welcome pupils from Mavisbank School.

"The reaction of staff and pupils has been incredibly positive.”