Forterra helps disadvantaged Derbyshire school inspire a generation of young readers
The funds will go towards the refurbishment of the school’s library as well as the purchase of up-to-date textbooks and reference books and a range of new fiction and non-fiction books.
“Supplementing the children’s learning with as much inspiring and informative reading as possible is really key for us here at Oakthorpe,” says Victoria Rooney, a class teacher and the lead for English at the school.
“Our school is situated in a deprived area, with many disadvantaged pupils attending. A large number of them are unable to attend preschool before joining. Unfortunately our own preschool had to close-down during COVID and we have not been able to reopen it. This means that many of our pupils begin school often being unable to read, write, or even speak English.
“A well-furnished, well-stocked library is absolutely what this school needs to help the children improve their vocabulary and communication skills and find an escape in the world of a story. Books enable pupils to expand their knowledge as well as their imaginations, and we can’t wait for the new library to be built!”
As well as purchasing new books, Oakthorpe Primary School will be using the funds to renovate their current library with new furniture, refurbish the décor of the place and address any disrepair.
“It’s important for us to create an inviting, friendly and relaxing setting in which the pupils can sit and enjoy a book. We hope the new library becomes a place where children can sit and read together at lunch time, or help one another during small group projects.
“We’re also keen to open the new library up to the younger siblings of current pupils, so that these pre-school aged infants can come in with their parents and get a head-start on reading and writing skills.
“We’d like to thank Forterra for their generous donation and for supporting the education and development of pupils who have been overlooked for a long time.”
Caroline Wildman, Marketing Director at Forterra, said: “We’re delighted to be able to provide this school with the means to build their new library and help engender a love of books and reading in the next generation.
“The Forterra Community Fund provides support for a variety of worthy causes across the country. We welcome applications that seek to make a difference to the local community.”
The Forterra Community Fund gives charities, clubs, groups and societies the opportunity to apply for funding or building products to be used in projects that make a positive contribution to their local community.
To apply to the fund, please visit https://www.forterra.co.uk/about-us/community/community-fund/.