Enhancing the Physical Environment

Work to enhance facilities and develop new services at the schools and homes around the group is evident from Steve Mycock, the Group’s Property and Facilities Manager’s job list.

As well as the development of the Trust Centre, which will be based in an existing building on the Alderwasley Hall School site, Steve and his team have a wide range of schemes on the go or about to start as they prepare to take advantage of the schools’ long summer break.

During the summer Alderwasley Hall School’s dining room will have a layout change and refurbishment. What is currently one large dining room will be split into three sections. This will improve the noise level and make the room more conducive to students who need more privacy to feel comfortable. The addition of a suspended ceiling will also reduce the noise level in the room. The redesign of the layout also aims to improve the flow of students entering the dining room by encouraging students to take a set route to the serving counter thereby preventing queues forming around tables. Decor will be chosen that will create a light, airy and modern dining experience for the students.

Building schemes at Winslow Court, Orchard End and Fairfield House have given the homes the benefit of an additional bedroom whilst a scheme to build a two bedroomed semi independent living unit in the grounds of Park House will commence at the beginning of August.         

Kingfisher House, at Aran Hall School is benefitting from a major refurbishment including a new layout.  This is due for completion in August.

Across the Group bathrooms, shower rooms and toilets are being upgraded, including all those at Rowden House School and Winslow Court, whilst  external decoration is taking place at Callow Park College.

Steve said: