RENFREWSHIRE Council gave Johnstone High School an ideal Christmas present a decade ago by completing a refurbishment of the building in time for the start of the new term.

Pupils and staff were able to enjoy improved facilities when they returned from their festive break, thanks to an £8.5million revamp.

Lessons had been held in the old St Cuthbert’s High building for 18 months to allow the regeneration of Johnstone High to take place.

At the time, headteacher Walter Hayburn said: “It’s like coming back to a new school.

“The whole school building has been transformed.

“As well as major structural work on roofing, windows, flooring, heating and lighting, the interior of the school looks bright and welcoming.

“And, in addition to the new look, we have upgraded facilities which will boost learning and teaching opportunities.

“Everyone is impressed and can’t wait to start the new term.

“I’d like to thank everyone involved and particularly the school community of Johnstone High – staff, pupils and parents – for making our time at St Cuthbert’s work well and for completing the transition back to our own school so smoothly.”

Councillor Lorraine Cameron, who was convener of Renfrewshire Council’s Education Policy Board at the time, was also impressed with the revamp.

She said: “I have visited the school and there’s no doubt that the investment in Johnstone High has created a high-quality educational facility.

“Johnstone High already has strong links with its local community. Now that the school is back in its own building, with all its new facilities and opportunities, it will be able to strengthen that connection even further.”

The school was originally opened in 1965 and, in 2009, it had 1,117 pupils and 96 members of staff.

In addition to the completed refurbishment, it was announced the school would have a £6.3m sports hub.

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