There was a buzz of excitement at St Mary’s Primary School in Alexandria last Wednesday as the new nursery space was unveiled, welcoming the school’s latest youngest members through its doors.

Last month, the three- to five-year-olds based at Ferryfield Early learning and Childcare Centre said goodbye to their much-loved Ferry Loan building to move over to the St Mary’s building.

Staff, some of whom have moved over from Ferryfield with the children, marked the little ones’ first day at the nursery on April 18 with a special ribbon cutting ceremony, followed by treats in the school’s gym as everyone got used to their new surroundings.

And though there were a few first day nerves, it didn’t take long for the children to embrace their new location – and they dashed through the doors at the ribbon drop to get exploring.

Pupils from St Mary’s primary six and seven assisted with a raffle, and the school’s catering team prepared scones for parents, grandparents and guardians who also came along to celebrate the day.

Christine Ann Gallacher, lead officer for St Mary’s ELCC nursery class, told the Reporter: “A lot of preparation was put in place.

“We started on the Monday last week and unpacked everything and set up the play room.

“On the first day we ran a raffle with tickets for a pound, with the funds going towards a nursery summer trip. We had a bit of a party for the children.

“We have been very welcomed by the school, they’ve been fantastic. We had access to the gym hall, we’re very happy and pleased with it all.”

And Christine says the team are very much looking forward to getting settled into their new home, with the nursery group consisting of 58 children in total.

Speaking of how the first day went, Christine said: “It’s just been a great day. At the beginning the children were a wee bit nervous at the official opening, but after it was cut everyone was happy and excited and loved looking at the new resources.

“The parents were overwhelmed. It’s going to be a nice home. We are home now. It’s been great.”