The Scottish Borders Council has announced plans to build three new schools and update five others in a move which could create new teaching jobs.

Individuals in Scotland can also take advantage of a new early retirement scheme being implemented over the next three years as part of a plan to save £1.65 million, the BBC has reported.

The council plans to build new schools in Clovenfords, West Linton and Kingsland.

Councillor Catriona Bhatia, executive member for education, has said that three schools built last year have made a difference for staff and pupils.

She continued: "Quality of learning is of course paramount, but surroundings play a huge part in the whole learning experience.

"Therefore it is essential that this Council continues to assess and evaluate our existing school buildings and make improvements where we can."

Meanwhile, Patrick Leeson, Ofsted's director of education and care, claimed recently that teachers need support to help raise standards in schools, as well as good facilities.

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