The Trust employs a team of caretakers to ensure that its premises are providing a safe, healthy and welcoming learning environment. The team has completed several projects, including redecking of the bandstand at Henley, upgrading of the kitchen at Winterton and replacement of end-of-life kitchen equipment. 

The Trust seeks to utilise the funding available via the Condition Improvement Fund to make improvements to the estate.  

The CIF-funded project to improve fire safety at Barnby & North Cove has been completed. This project has included a new fire and smoke detection and alarm system and upgraded fire doors.  

Heating replacement projects, also funded by CIF, are underway at Henley, Mendham, Barnby & North Cove and St Edmund’s. They are scheduled for completion by the end of the summer school holidays. As well as providing more reliable systems, the change of fuel source to electricity will contribute to the Trust’s obligation to seek reductions in its share of carbon dioxide emissions. 

The Trust has undertaken a major construction project to establish a SEND unit at Barnby & North Cove to open for pupils in September 2024. This project, funded by Suffolk County Council, has made significant progress since ground was broken in February. Groundwork and below floor services are complete and masonry walls are under construction. It is hoped that there are no further delays due to inclement weather. 

Written by: Robin Chew, Head of Service Facilities & Compliance