Riverbank Primary youngsters have designed its new crest and made their mark on the under-construction building

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Pupils at two merging Coatbridge primaries have made their mark on their new school by getting creative with both their new crest and new building.

Youngsters at Carnbroe and Sikeside unveiled the stylish combined result of a competition to design a badge for their amalgamated Riverbank Primary – and some also had the chance to sign the steelwork going into place for their new £24m campus.

The name for the new school, due to open next year, was officially confirmed last month following a vote among children, parents and staff; and then saw the pupils design their new logo.

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It features a tree and the Riverbank name in a special font, respectively designed by Sikeside pupils Millie and Stefan, appearing on a green and blue background representing parkland and water as suggested by Carnbroe youngster Shannon.

Helen Paterson, who is acting head teacher of both schools, said: “The response to the design competition was incredible.

“We chose elements from three of the best entries and worked with the council’s corporate communications section to produce the final version, which everyone agrees is really superb.”

Future Riverbank pupils were also quick on the draw as they enjoyed the unique chance to sign and doodle on beams which will form the steel structure of the new building at Paddock Street.

They got creative as they visited the construction site to be shown around and learn about the project to date thanks to staff from contractor Morgan Sindall.

Construction began in January on the two-storey building, which will accommodate nearly 600 primary and nursery pupils and will include sports and community facilities, with the grounds being designed to have a “country park-like feel”.

Education convener Kirsten Larson, the Coatbridge North councillor, said: “The new crest really is excellent – it’s very stylish and eye-catching and I’m sure it will become a source of immense pride by everyone associated with the new school.

“It was great to meet some of the pupils who were involved in its design to find out about their ideas and congratulate them on their achievements.”

She was joined at the unveiling of the badge by Coatbridge South representatives Andrew Bustard and Tracy Carragher, the depute council leader as well as staff and pupils from both schools.

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