Early Christmas present for Halton pre-school
A Halton pre-school has received an early Christmas present from the Mersey Gateway Project in the form of a DIY-SOS style makeover.
Halton Lodge and Grange Pre-School in Runcorn has been refurbished following an application to Merseylink’s Time Bank scheme for help to improve the school building.
Generous hearted construction workers got to work restoring a disabled ramp, installing spotlights for extra security and replacing doors and a window, while the exterior of the building will be cleaned and painted in the New Year.
Merseylink’s landscape subcontractor Lowther has also tidied up the outdoor space, cutting back shrubs and trees.
Inside, the walls and woodwork have been given a fresh coat of pale blue paint, and new energy efficient electric heaters and heating guards have been installed along with a new baby change facility.
The pre-school is a registered charity, which cares for youngsters aged between two and four years old and supports vulnerable children and those with special educational needs. Run by a volunteer committee, it operates from a mobile unit within the grounds of Woodside Primary School.
Jill Berry, Manager of Halton Lodge and Grange Pre-School, is delighted with the final result.
“Following our recent inspection by Ofsted (on 14 November 2016) the inspector made some positive comments about our school environment. We successfully maintained a grade of ‘Good’ and I believe that the works carried out by Merseylink have directly contributed to this rating by enhancing the provision that we offer.
“The report highlighted that ‘Support for children who have special educational needs or disabilities is excellent.’ Thanks to the work on the ramp we can continue to offer disabled access, which helps us to provide a secure and accessible environment where every child feels not only safe, but equally included.
Neil Wilcock, Merseylink’s Employment and Skills Co-ordinator, said: “It’s fantastic to hear that our work has positively contributed to the school’s latest Ofsted rating. The improvements will make a real difference to the staff and children and it’s another great example of how our Time Bank scheme is enabling us to give something back to the local community. Thanks once again go to our staff team and supply chain for their time and generosity.”
The Merseylink Time Bank scheme was set up to provide practical help and support to directly benefit the communities of Halton.