PARENTS, businesses and a school community have come together to save a Downend school’s swimming pool.
Earlier this year Christ Church Infant School learned that its pool, where generations of children have learned to swim, could no longer be used without repairs that would cost more than £35,000.
Head teacher Anna Martin said it would have been impossible for the school to find the money and the future of the pool was in serious doubt – but the response was “nothing short of remarkable”.
Mrs Martin said: “Our school community rallied together with determination, generosity and an incredible willingness to help.”
Parent Nathan Pratt, who runs local business Opulent Carpentry & Joinery, took on the work and “transformed” the project.
Mrs Martin said: “Working tirelessly during evenings and weekends, Nathan has single-handedly rebuilt the swimming pool, supported along the way by generous donations from local businesses and families.
“We are extremely grateful to WDM, WPA Healthcare Practice and High Voltage Grid Services, one of our parents’ companies, for their significant contributions, which helped make the project possible. Amy Brewer, who works for Oldbury Court Out of School Clubs at our school, also ran a ‘Rockbox’ Fitness Class for parents to raise money.
“We would also like to thank Jane Short, owner of First Strokes Swimming School, for her continued support – financially and through advice on the pool structure.
“Parents also rolled up their sleeves and joined us one Friday evening to clear the old pool and remove mountains of rubble. It was hard work, but the sense of community spirit was truly inspiring.”
The school also received financial support from South Gloucestershire Council, while parents and supporters raised more than £1,800 in donations.
The huge effort mean that the pool, which is used during school hours and for after-school lessons, was rebuilt and ready to use before the start of term, when swimming lessons were back.
Mrs Martin said: “We know how lucky we are to have our very own swimming pool. The benefits are enormous.
“What began as a disaster has become a wonderful example of what can happen when a community comes together.
“The response has far exceeded anything we could have imagined and has demonstrated just how much our school and pool mean to local families.
“I feel incredibly proud and fortunate to be part of a school community that has shown such kindness, generosity and determination.”
