Improving Our Schools

Thornhill pupils of Hightown, Kanes Hill and Thornhill Primary School are benefiting from a number of NDC-funded improvements.

Hightown Primary School 023 80 403536

Playgrounds – Reception and Junior playgrounds revamped and made more interesting. The Reception area includes a new sandpit, bridge with mock stream, climbing tower, cycle track, activity corner and pathway.

The Junior area includes a quiet, shaded seating area under a pagoda, climbing tower, new markings, slingshot game and game tops to tables. The Senior playground tarmac area has been extended and gaming tops have been put on the tables in the quiet area.

Musical Instruments – several new instruments have been purchased, including an excellent piano suitable for learning and performances.

Music Tuition – money allocated for specialist teachers to come in and coach the children.

Visits Fund – visits to Windsor Castle, HMS Victory, Explosion, D-Day Museum, Down to Earth, Manor Farm and the Tourist Association have been either fully or partially funded.

ICT – Interactive white boards have been installed into every classroom, desktop PCs have been purchased and networking and cabling to support them. Digital cameras have also been bought and the school has employed a specialist ICT Technician. Several items of software have also been obtained.

Play Therapy Assistants have been recruited.

Asbestos Removal has been carried out on the fascias of the school (during half term).

Toilets – all the children’s toilets have been gutted and refurbished with new toilets, sinks, cubicles, tiles, flooring etc. All in bright, clean, new colours.

Kanes Hill Primary School 023 80 463737

Audio System – a new audio system for the main hall is being acquired. It is a portable racking system and can be used indoors and out for performances, fetes and discos.

Stage – a new lightweight and versatile stage has been purchased. It can be used flat or tiered and has safety railing all around.

Musical Instruments – various hand-held items for all ages have been purchased.

Video Editing Suite – equipment has been purchased to allow video editing, sound recording etc. Keyboards (musical) are included and it is an interesting and challenging package.

ICT – Desktop PCs have been purchased, new server installed and ranger system is in operation. Cabling and networking has been carried out to support the new items and a new colour laser printer has also been purchased. Digital cameras have also been bought and the school has employed a specialist ICT Technician.

Trips Fund – A residential trip to Beaulieu Outdoor Centre and a camping trip to Fairthorn Manor have been partially supported by NDC funding.

Sports Equipment has been updated.

Play Therapy Assistants are in place.

Speech & Language Resources – specialist books, educational games, flash cards and inspirational play items have been purchased to encourage speech and discussion.

Optical Mark Reader (OMR) Machine – purchased to assist with registers.

Security Fencing – a new security fence has been erected to front and side boundaries to ensure the safety and security of the children and the school. This has also had a very positive effect on reducing trespassing and vandalism out of school hours.

Release Teacher – is in place allowing more scope for management planning.

Thornhill Primary School 023 80 449595

Musical Instruments – several new instruments have been purchased for all age groups including Xylophones, drums, and percussion instruments. Specialist music tuition is also being funded and the music room is being revamped with high standard sound proofing and security.

Sports Equipment – good quality items have been purchased for all levels and age groups, including specialist reception and Key Stage 1 equipment. Other items include athletics and agility kits and hurdles. Both indoor and outdoor storage facilities are also being refurbished to allow easier access for children.

Playgrounds – A well-used adventure playground is in place and work has commenced on the complete refurbishment of the Reception play area.

Windows and Doors – a replacement programme has commenced and will be ongoing for several months.

Asbestos Removal (low grade / risk) – in classrooms completed over the Easter break.

Storage – additional storage rooms have been built under stairwells utilising an otherwise unused space.

Vision Panels – installed in a Year 5 classroom to give better lighting to the room and corridor.

ICT – desktop PCs have been purchased and supporting networking and cabling. Large amounts of Basic Skills Software have been purchased to further enhance learning opportunities. Digital cameras have also been purchased and the school has employed an ICT Technician.