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News
Making the most of February half term The new year often heralds a fresh start, which is why it’s the perfect time to complete any repairs or maintenance works which may have been on the radar or to work on improving facilities for everyone who uses the premises. It can be difficult to conduct many maintenance jobs during term time. Jobs such as painting, plastering and decorating aren’t easy to complete when a school is working at full capacity, likewise, refurbishing a classroom is rarely a viable option when the space is required for learning. Tasks such as adapting a school’s heating or electrical systems, replacing flooring or modifying reception areas and washrooms also aren’t possible when the building has a constant stream of visitors and users during its day to day
operations. Tony Cahill, executive director at Liverpool-based facilities management company, Vivark, said: “Half term aligns itself in a prime spot at the end of the financial year, allowing for the final use of any surplus budget for work which will genuinely benefit the school in the long run, especially if the task required is in any way essential. “Take a look at the premises and think about the adaptations that could be made in a short space of time. It may be useful to consult an external facilities management company which can provide a tailored approach to improving a school, be it a primary, secondary or FE establishment. “Utilising the services of an experienced team of professionals can also add value to long-term
Hillside celebrate achievement with style
Headteacher Amanda Ryan addressing staff, students and parents
Staff and pupils at Hillside High School always look forward to their annual presentation evening and none more so than in November. Headteacher, Amanda Ryan said: “We reward our most outstanding students and this year was even more exciting as we decided to hold our ceremony in the quite grand setting of Bootle Town Hall”. Headteacher, Amanda Ryan and chair of governors, Jim Rimmer gave out prize after prize with the most prestigious award of the evening, the G A Rogers prize for outstanding performance in external exams, going to Amy Scott and Piotr Pawlowski. Amy gained 11 A* – C grades at GCSE, 10 of which were A*/A and Piotr achieved 9 A* grades. The entertainment by Hillside students was superb and staff, students and parents agreed that the awards ceremony had been the best ever. 70
Educate The Magazine for Parents and Pupils
Tony Cahill - Vivark
sustainability. “Small refurbishment projects to meet current needs can have a much reduced environmental impact, delivering ongoing energy efficiencies and reduced maintenance costs”.
Kickboxing club moves to new school venue Swift Kickboxing Club has recently moved to All Saints Catholic High School in Kirkby, with the new venue providing a dedicated sports room. Equipped with a mirror room for sparring, the space is said to have a much better set up and layout for the club. Following the move, Sensei Swift said: “I felt like it was time for a change for the club and the school’s facilities suited the club much more than our old venue.” Sessions at Swift Kickboxing Club are designed towards adults and children above five, catering for all ages and abilities. The club also has families who train together and parents can train with their children. Sensei Swift adds: “Our syllabus covers kickboxing, Ju-Jitsu, Kung Fu and boxing. As individuals we learn in different ways and at different speeds, and we follow a grading system from white belt through to black and beyond. “What you can expect during a typical training session is a warm up, some cardio fitness, work on your grading and some bespoke self-defence moves. The class will aim to achieve improved fitness, the ability to defend yourself and improved self-confidence.” Classes take place every Monday and Wednesday from 6-7pm, although places are limited due to the capacity of the room. Participants will receive the first session free with no obligation, and should attend the school reception off Roughwood Drive for 5.55pm.