Revamp of Didsbury school boosts learning and social skills

A recent open day at Lancasterian School in Didsbury revealed its remarkable transformation after a £2.5 million refurbishment project.

Work started in March 2010 at the specialist school for communication and interaction, funded through the Building Schools for the Future (BSF) programme.
 
The refurbishment was completed in a year, on budget and ahead of schedule.
 
Improvements include the installation of new canopies to allow outdoor teaching and provide sheltered relaxation areas; new lighting throughout the school; an updated kitchen with a range of height adjustable facilities, which can be used by pupils for lessons and making food for the coffee shop.
 
The funding also covered an ICT upgrade, which includes interactive whiteboards and wireless systems throughout. A soundfield system has been introduced, which gives an even distribution of sound around a classroom, with voice enhancement to improve the quality and clarity of what pupils hear.
 
Head teacher David Calvert said: "The transformation of the school has been incredible and it has had a profound effect on the pupils, who really appreciate the new facilities. We've been able to use the whole project as a learning experience - we even involved the students in a colour and light workshop during the design phase and they chose the paint colours throughout the school."
 
Councillor Afzal Kahn, Executive Member for Children's Services at Manchester City Council, said: "One of the biggest achievements with this project is how the design has encouraged communication - from masterful design and planning and decorating in social areas, right through to the most advanced ICT equipment. This shows the spirit of the BSF project - where improved facilities can aid learning and social development."
 
Manchester City Council's BSF team worked with construction business Cruden Group on the project at Lancasterian School.
 
For more information about Manchester City Council visit http://www.manchester.gov.uk/