Primary school closed till August after 'structural' problem

A primary school in Edinburgh will be closed for the rest of the school year after structural issues were uncovered.

City of Edinburgh Council confirmed St Cuthbert's RC Primary School, which has about 180 pupils, would reopen in August.

The building was closed on 24 March as a "precautionary measure" but that does not affect the nursery which is open as usual.

About 100 pupils in primary one to four have been moved to St Peter's Primary School, while children between primary five and seven are spending the rest of the school year in St Augustine High School.

A spokesperson for Edinburgh council said the school remains closed while works are carried out in the building, with the aim for all relevant work and safety checks to be complete in time for the school to reopen in August.

They said: "In the meantime, arrangements in place for pupils at neighbouring schools are working well for learners and families."

All pupils are being given transport between St Cuthbert's and their host schools.

The Slateford primary school has pupils attending from across the city.

James Dalgleish, the council's education, children and families convener, acknowledged the news will be inconvenient for parents and carers.

He previously told BBC Scotland: "Our priority is the health, safety and wellbeing of children in our care, and staff who work in the school.

"We appreciate the patience and understanding of our families while our teams work to support and settle children into new learning environments this week.

"Regular updates will be provided to parents and carers via the St Cuthbert's Primary School website."