Pupils and staff at a Gower primary school have reacted are delighted with their newly completed extension.
The new Foundation Phase block at Llanrhidian Primary School is light and airy with fantastic views and its completion has coincided with the school’s centenary celebrations.
School staff and management anticipate that it will have a positive impact on the children’s learning experiences.
The extension was built as part of Swansea Council’s Quality in Education (QEd) 2020 strategy which seeks to raise the standard of achievement and attainment for all children and young people, to improve the quality of the learning environment and to make the best use of human, physical and financial resources.
The development was funded by the Welsh Assembly Government and involved the demolition of an old-style demountable classroom and the construction of a purpose-built two classroom Foundation Phase facility.The unit incorporates a new kitchen for pupils and an enclosed outdoor learning and play area with soft and hard play areas. This includes a covered area for outdoor learning along with a toy store with direct access from the Foundation Phase classrooms.
Part of the existing building has also been remodelled and this made the space more suitable for a 21st century curriculum and delivered a fit-for-purpose, five-classroom teaching facility.
Headteacher Donna Caswell said the whole school community is thrilled.
She said: “It is wonderful to see the staff and pupils enjoying their new surroundings and I know that it will have a positive impact on the learning experiences of all our pupils.
“My only criticism is that the children keep making delicious cakes and snacks in the new kitchen –and this isn’t doing my diet any good at all! I’d like to say thank you to all those involved in making this possible and to all those who have been so patient during the last few terms. This includes parents, the community and the staff who have worked tirelessly to not let the disruption affect our pupils.”
Rebecca Jones, Early Years Leader, said: “The children are so calm and happy in their new classroom. The big windows let in so much light that it has a positive impact on the well-being of the children and staff. It really is a joy coming into work in the morning and opening up the patio doors onto the outdoor area.”
Cllr Mike Day, Swansea Council’s Cabinet Member for Education, said: “I’m delighted that this learning facility has been completed in time for the school’s centenary and I’d like to thank the project team for their hard work and the school for their patience during the build.
“The project demonstrates our commitment as a Council to making the most of our resources to improve learning environments for all learners.”
