The local community of Distington celebrates this week when a new community facility at the local community school is officially opened. Mrs Kathleen Jones, a former headteacher of Distington Infant School will open the facility on Friday 2nd December at 1.30pm
The opening will include the unveiling of a plaque, speeches from Headteacher Andrew Cannon, Chair of Governors and the local parish council followed by performances by pupils at the school.
The new facility will provide school children and the wider community with a new computer suite, conference room, arts room, theatre and sports hall. The project cost in the region of £750k and was funded in partnership by the school, Cumbria County Council and the Government's Space for Sports and Arts programme.
County councillor Philip Chappelhow, cabinet spokesman for children's services said:
“I am very impressed with the developments made at the school since its amalgamation four years ago. It already provides a high quality, friendly environment providing opportunities for each pupil to achieve the highest standard of learning possible. Pupils and staff at the school will not only benefit from this new facility but also the wider community. The school is a real credit to the village of Distington."
Headteacher Andrew Cannon said:
“I am delighted that Kathleen is officially opening the facility as it was her drive and vision that instigated this initiative. She established foundations of this project long before I took up my post as headteacher of the newly amalgamated school. It is also fitting that a professional who has worked with the children of Distington for twenty years should be recognised for her dedication in such a way.”
The new facility will offer the following activities:
1. Regular aerobics classes and circuit training
2. A variety of computer courses from beginners to diplomas
3. A base for local organisations such as the Rugby Club and the Distington Club for Young People
4. Specialist courses and classes including salsa dancing
5. A sports activity leader will be working with both children and the community taking gymnastics classes, coaching football and running a parent and child badminton club
6. The new hall has already been used for school performances as well as productions by The Theatre by the Lake