Massy team spruces up Learning Centre’s play park

Students of the Learning Centre returned to the Orange Hill, St James institution this week to a much-improved recreational space, thanks to the dedicated efforts of a small contingent of Massy staff who made light work of the beautification project.

Weeks before the start of the school term, some 20 employees spent about six hours pressure-washing, repainting of the road tennis courts and the picket fences, trimming and raking grass, as well as replanting grass and shrubs within the dedicated play park. Massy also equipped the space with benches and tables.  

Public relations manager, Massy (Barbados) Ltd., Jennifer Branch, said that the project was an extension of the work started at the school through the Massy Foundation which financed the upgrade to the home economics room last year.

“Having previously done some work at the Centre through the Massy Foundation, we recognised that there were opportunities for our staff to volunteer their time as part of our Massy C.A.R.E.S. (Community Action Response to Enhance Society) programme. The decision to undertake this project was based on a proposal from a former board member (of the Learning Centre), Linda White, who outlined the immediate benefits it would bring to the students of the school.

“So, it isn’t simply a space to play; it provides the students with a dedicated outdoor space to sit and eat − where previously none existed. Moreover, the repainting of the road tennis courts ensures that the school’s road tennis team can continue to practise its game, having captured the inaugural Road Tennis Special Student Tournament last year. And, it is our hope that this enhancement will contribute to the players continued success,” Branch said. 

The Learning Centre is a not-for-profit institution managed by the Barbados Association for the Correction of Learning Disabilities to assist in the development of children between the ages of five to 18 years old, many of whom suffer with learning difficulties or developmental disabilities. It has been in existence for some 40 years and currently serves the educational needs of nearly 100 children who are taught some traditional academic subjects such as mathematics and English, as well as in skills-based training including cosmetology, home economics, woodwork, computer skills, upholstery as well as arts and craft. (PR)