Pupils at Finchampstead C of E Learn About Staying Safe Around Construction Sites
Finchampstead Church of England Primary School pupils were taught the importance of staying safe and the dangers of playing around nearby construction sites as part of a curriculum-based school programme hosted by Cala Homes (Thames).
At the end of October, 60 pupils at Finchampstead Church of England Primary School were taught the importance of staying safe and the dangers of playing around nearby construction sites as part of a curriculum-based school programme hosted by Cala Homes (Thames).
The children took part in Cala’s ‘Stay Safe, Stay Away’ initiative, hosted by Olly Martin and Joe Smyth, who provided them with an interactive session that uncovered the history of building houses and engaging the children in roles within the construction industry, while also spreading the message to children that construction sites are not somewhere to play around.
The initiative is an essential part of Cala Homes’ Community Pledge, which they deliver as part of its Finchwood Park development, located near the school. Through the Community Pledge, the housebuilder commits to providing positive social impacts to the areas it builds through community engagement initiatives, such as school workshops, volunteering, donations, sponsorships, and bursaries.
Jacquie Vanstone, Headmistress at Finchampstead CofE School, says: “On behalf of our pupils and teachers, we’re grateful to Joe and Olly for taking time out of their day to provide our Key Stage 2 pupils with an engaging, interactive way to discuss such a serious topic: how to play safely near construction sites – especially with the days getting darker, it’s important for children to understand that even though they look intriguing, it’s a space best left for professionals.
“As well as engaging in raising awareness of the safety of our pupils, the team at Cala have been instrumental in helping us transform two of our classrooms into a vibrant learning space for the children which we’re extremely grateful. Thanks to Cala Homes and their community pledge, we can better provide an enriching and dynamic learning environment for our school and look forward to working with the housebuilder in the future.”
Olly Martin, Land Buyer at Cala Homes Thames, said: “At Cala, we are dedicated to spreading the message to schools that construction sites are not somewhere to play near, and the Stay Safe, Stay Away programme does just that.
“Although all of Cala’s sites are secure, it is important that young people understand the dangers of entering a construction area, so they don’t put themselves or their friends at risk. We know it’s a serious subject, however, hopefully, our animated film, interactive presentation and goody bags are a fun way for the children to engage in the topic.
“Joe and I had a wonderful time at Finchampstead CofE and are grateful to the students and teachers for putting time aside at the end of term to learn the importance of safety on site.
‘We’re also incredibly thankful for the thoughtful cards and gifts presented to us at the end by the children to show their appreciation for the classrooms the team helped renovate earlier this year – on behalf of the team at Cala Thames, thank you for your kindness.”
For more information on the Finchwood Development, visit: https://www.cala.co.uk/homes-for-sale/south-east-england/berkshire/cala-at-finchwood-park-finchampstead/
Schools near a Cala Homes development can register their interest in Stay Safe, Stay Away by getting in touch via the website: www.cala.co.uk.