Pupils from Newtown Primary have started the new term in temporary classrooms at Council HQ after part of the building was converted into a safe and welcoming learning space.
The temporary move follows the fire at Newtown Primary School on 25 July 2026, which left the school building unusable while renovation and remedial works are carried out.
Council teams have worked over the summer to prepare the temporary accommodation, with education, property, facilities, health and safety, emergency planning and communications officers supporting the relocation.
Temporary Classrooms
The temporary school area includes classroom space for each primary class, secure access, areas for playtimes and lunchtimes, and shared space for assembly, PE and music.
Kevin Wilson, Headteacher at Newtown Primary School
“I’m immensely proud of the staff at Newtown Primary and education colleagues across SBC for pulling together to make sure pupils could start the new term.
“I would also like to thank families and the local community for their patience and support. I know this has been an unsettling time, and we very much look forward to welcoming pupils to HQ.”
Early learning and childcare children from Newtown Nursery are being temporarily accommodated at Earlston Primary Early Learning Centre, where suitable registered space and facilities are available. Transport arrangements are in place to support children and families.
Parents and carers have been kept updated throughout and were offered the opportunity to visit the temporary school, meet education officers and ask questions before pupils returned.
The relocation has also required changes within Council HQ, with some staff and services temporarily moving areas to create the space needed for the school. Staff and partner organisations based in the building have been thanked for their flexibility and support.
Councillor Julie Pirone, SBC’s Executive Member for Education, Lifelong Learning and Youth Development
“Our immediate priority has been to make sure children and staff from Newtown Primary could return for the start of term.
“This has been a significant piece of work in a short period of time, and I want to thank everyone involved across the Council, the school, parent council, and our partners. It has been a tremendous effort of everyone working together. It means pupils can continue their learning with as little disruption as possible while works take place at the school.
“We recognise this has been an unsettling time for families, pupils and staff, and we are grateful for their patience and understanding. We will continue to keep the school community updated as work progresses.”
The Council will continue to work closely with the school community while timescales for the remedial works at Newtown Primary School and nursery are confirmed.