This report provides a summary of activities undertaken by WNM as a result of receiving a Fifty-Fifty grant.
Refurbishment project
The planning and decision-making stages of the project has been completed and a relevant risk assessment also undertaken. As a consequence of undertaking the risk assessment the need to check for any presence of asbestos in the area requiring building work was identified. This assessment was completed in January 2022 when the local expert was available to undertake his examination. The assessment found a small pad of asbestos on the underside of the sink unit in the kitchenette. This will require careful removal when the unit is replaced with the need to wear PPE. A plumber able to conduct this work for us has been identified.
Unfortunately, due to the current boom in construction activities locally we are still waiting for key building work to be completed. The necessary experts have been identified and the works agreed, but we are waiting for them to be free to undertake the work. This has delayed progress; however essential materials have been ordered and therefore the works can be undertaken at short notice if required.
As part of the planning process, we have consulted with our students in terms of colour schemes and style of décor. They have really appreciated being consulted and are excited about the changes that will be made.
Staff Training
The refurbishment project costs have been contained based on discounted rates and in some cases donated services, therefore part of the grant has been used to fund important CPD for our two employed tutors. They have commenced an Accredited Level 5 - Certificate in Dyslexia; Literacy, Support and Intervention that is delivered online. This course will be completed in April 2022 when one of the tutors will progress to a level 7 Diploma in providing special arrangements for examinations. This training supports us to meet the CPD requirements of Pearson Edexcel in our capacity as a Functional Skills Examination Centre. It also, enhances our ability to provide numeracy and literacy support, which is child-centred, to those who have visual discrimination issues, or other complex needs such as: ADHD and AS.
Sally Gallichan
On behalf of Words and Numbers Matter