Carmarthen school gets £3k boost for specialist unit

Persimmon Homes West Wales, who built the Parc y Fron development in Carmarthen, has donated £3k to Queen Elizabeth High School in the local area to upgrade its specialist unit, Canolfan Elfed, for pupils with additional learning needs. 

The funds, which were donated following the school’s successful application to Persimmon’s Community Champions scheme, will go toward Canolfan Elfed’s upgrade of the outdoor sensory learning area for its 93 pupils to use.  

The project will be guided by the pupils, according to the school, who will “actively” engage in the design process and collaborate with playground design experts to “create their vision”.

Nigel Cooke, school business manager for Queen Elizabeth High School, said: “The previous outdoor space was unsafe and unsuitable, and we want to replace it with a versatile, inclusive, and student-designed space that meets the unique needs of our pupils.

“That’s why we are grateful to Persimmon for their generous donation, especially considering it has triggered match-funding arrangements we have with other organisations. This will allow us to provide pupils with the facilities they need and deserve at the school and we can’t wait to take this project through to completion.”

Cllr Emlyn Schiavone, mayor of Carmarthen and local county councillor, added: “Canolfan Elfed does fantastic work with children from Carmarthen and the surrounding areas, as well as occasionally pupils from neighbouring counties. It is really encouraging to hear about their ambitions to improve facilities for children and young persons with additional and complex learning needs.

“I am really grateful to Persimmon for their valuable donation and willingness to support important initiatives like this in Carmarthen. I know the school will welcome any help other organisations may be able to contribute as well.”