Tag Archives: gwynedd

News

Canoeing teenager eyes Olympic glory.. and school is behind him all the way

TALENTED teenager Toby Sutcliffe is making serious waves in the world of canoe slalom – and his school is behind him every stroke of the way.

The 15 year-old from Llanberis, a pupil at St Gerard’s School in Bangor, is currently ranked among the top five C1 slalom athletes in the UK for his age group.

A dedicated year-round paddler, Toby trains on Llyn Padarn and at the National Water Sports Centre in Nottingham and has competed in the Junior Slalom European Cup in France and Germany as part of the Welsh Performance Team.

He joined St Gerard’s aged seven and is about to start Year 11. Balancing elite sport with his GCSE studies, Toby says the school has played a key role in helping him chase his goals.

“My ultimate aim is to reach the highest national division, then Team GB,” said Toby said.

“I’d love to make it to the World Championships or the Olympics one day.

“The school has been so supportive — always helping me catch up or send me extra work when I’ve missed lessons to compete overseas. I’m really grateful.”

Toby’s passion for paddling began during the pandemic, after his previous interest in ski slalom was put on hold.

“We had access to the lake and tried a few local taster sessions,” said mum Vicki.

“From his very first go in a C1 canoe, he just lit up — the smile hasn’t left his face since.”

Dad Will added: “It’s great to see St Gerard’s backing young athletes. Their support and sponsorship for Toby have made a real difference and the sport needs new talent like him coming through.”

Toby is also finding success in kayak cross, a fast, contact-heavy race discipline that debuted at the 2024 Paris Olympics. He reached the semi-finals in Augsburg, Germany, and came third in a recent open event in Nottingham.

Sid Sinfield, Performance Manager at Paddle Cymru, said: “With a strong work ethic and a passion for canoe slalom, Toby is not only competing at a high level for his age but is also on a clear trajectory toward national and international success.

“As he continues to train, travel, and compete, support and sponsorship play a vital role in helping him reach his full potential.

“Funding enables access to top-level coaching, specialised equipment, and travel to key races across the UK and Europe – essential components in the development of a world-class athlete.

“St Gerard’s School’s backing of Toby is an opportunity to invest in the future of British canoeing and to support a driven young athlete with the talent and determination to go far.”

Headteacher Campbell Harrison added: “We’re proud of Toby and all our pupils as they chase their dreams.

“Whether in sport, academics, or the arts, St Gerard’s is committed to helping young people achieve their full potential — and we’re behind Toby all the way.”

For the latest news and information from St Gerard’s School, visit the website www.st-gerards.org and follow them on social media. 

Alternatively, email sgadmin@st-gerards.org or call 01248 351656.

News

Local Food Producers Encouraged to Partner with Welsh Schools in Supplying Fresh Produce

Independent food producers and growers across North Wales are being urged to seize new opportunities through partnerships with Conwy schools.

A pilot project led by Conwy County Borough Council’s Catering department, in collaboration with the Welsh Government’s Foundational Economy and Business Wales initiatives, is exploring how local authorities can better incorporate Welsh-grown produce into primary school menus.

The initial phase of the pilot focused on green vegetables—specifically broccoli—and highlighted a strong preference among pupils for fresh over frozen options. Now, the project partners are appealing to regional growers to meet this growing demand and help develop supply pathways for fresh vegetables destined for school kitchens.

Dafydd Aled Williams, a consultant and former Health and Wellbeing Manager for Conwy, explained that these partnerships align with the Welsh Government’s Universal Primary Free School Meals (UPFSM) programme, which prioritizes health, sustainability, and support for families during the cost-of-living crisis.

“There has been a lot of research and work behind the scenes over the last year to introduce more Welsh produce onto schools’ menus,” said Dafydd.

“Taking broccoli as an example, there was a test period where pupils were given fresh broccoli for a period of 3 weeks and much preferred it to frozen.

“The task then is to see how financially viable it would be to introduce fresh locally grown broccoli, which on evaluation would be on a long-term basis, but at present there is nobody in the region producing the quantities needed to supply schools.

“We can see the project unfolding over the next three years initially, identifying potential local commercial vegetable growers to work with the current fruit and veg wholesaler to explore budgets and costs.

“This demonstrates that there are commercial opportunities in growing other foodstuffs including leeks, onions and also salad vegetables such as cucumber, tomatoes and lettuce, which would have a positive knock-on effect for the local economy, for the environment and ultimately the healthy eating habits of future generations of children.”

Dafydd also praised the council’s continued commitment to supporting local businesses:

“Conwy council has worked incredibly hard to use independent businesses and local produce where possible and other local authorities have done the same, so hopefully if everyone keeps moving in that direction it will be of long-term benefit to businesses and schools in North Wales and beyond.”

The momentum is building. Earlier this year, Business Wales hosted virtual events focusing on social value in public sector procurement, supply chains, and tendering processes to help businesses access these emerging opportunities.

David Wylie, Food Project Manager at Menter Môn, echoed the enthusiasm and potential for growth in the region:

“We have interested parties and are working hard to encourage more independent producers and businesses to capitalise on what will be huge demand,” he added.

“We want them to play a major role in public sector supply chains and appear on the menus of schools in Conwy and other local authorities keen to use more local food and drink.

“This in turn will boost the economy, employment, and give these small businesses a new revenue stream.”

One standout example is the Larder Cymru Welsh Food for Schools initiative, supported by the Welsh Government’s Foundational Economy Team. The scheme champions Welsh produce and shortens supply chains, contributing to sustainability and reduced carbon emissions, while promoting healthy eating in schools.

News

Independent school’s £150k sports facility completed ahead of summer

A LEADING independent school has unveiled a £150,000 multi-use sports facility following the completion of construction work.

The new state-of-the-art pitches at St Gerard’s School in Bangor are already drawing attention from prospective students and the wider community, having been finished ahead of the summer season.

The development features a ‘next generation’ artificial grass surface suitable for five-a-side football, netball, hockey, tennis, basketball and more.

Alongside the pitches are an access road, parking spaces, a running track, and landscaped areas. Plans are also in place to add floodlighting, changing rooms, and toilet facilities in the near future.

St Gerard’s – ranked eighth nationally in the Sunday Times Parent Power Guide – has made significant infrastructure investments over the past 18 months.

Headteacher Campbell Harrison reaffirmed the school’s ambition to enhance its appeal and support its current students and their families.

“This is not just a MUGA (multi-use games area), it is a commitment to our pupils and the community,” he said.

“We have a rich academic history but are also renowned for punching above our weight when it comes to sporting activity and achievement, producing many champions and elite young athletes over the years.

“Most importantly, we promote health, wellbeing and exercise, combined with fun! That’s one of the main reasons behind this new facility, which I’m sure will prove very popular with learners but also people in north west Wales keen to participate in sports like five-a-side, netball and basketball in the evenings and on weekends.”

Business Manager Steve Griffiths echoed this enthusiasm, highlighting the wider benefits of the project.

“The facility is a fantastic addition to the site and further improves our physical education (PE) provision.

“We have also introduced a garden and landscaping around the area to complement the ‘wellness walk’ we launched last year, and the overall redevelopment of the seven-acre site.

“We have future plans but as always our key mission is to ensure the pupils receive the best education in a warm, welcoming setting – which they do.”

With a 16% increase in student numbers in 2024 and further enrolment growth anticipated in Year 7 and the Sixth Form, St Gerard’s is well-positioned to maintain its leadership status despite ongoing pressures in the independent education sector.

The school’s broader development programme has included not just sports and outdoor amenities but also a revamped Sixth Form suite, updated library and visitor car park, roof maintenance, a refreshed logo and website, and the installation of a £150,000 heating system.

St Gerard’s will host an open event on Saturday, June 7, from 10am to 1pm.

For more information or to attend the open day, visit www.st-gerards.org, follow the school on social media, email sgadmin@st-gerards.org, or call 01248 351656.

News

School pupils on the right frequency to launch new radio station

PUPILS and staff at a top 10 school are on the right frequency to launch a new radio station.

Members of the Business Club at St Gerard’s School in Bangor are putting together a strategy to set up a broadcasting platform that will stand as an “education resource” and deliver “interesting and informative” programmes for the local community.

As part of their studies, pupils have secured a start-up budget to get the project underway and plan to generate revenue, so the station is self-sufficient within two years.

They are being supported by learning and development consultant Jacky Leonard and Simon Wynne, operations director at Bayside Radio in Colwyn Bay.

The group – from Years 7 upwards – meet regularly after school and are conducting market research, identifying key demographics including age groups, and have received feedback from parents and residents.

“The pupils have been working hard this term in coming up with ideas, looking at examples of best practice from other schools and community stations and linking the entertainment aspect with academia,” said Jacky.

“As well as being a fun project it will also give them experience of broadcast media and build confidence in presenting, public speaking, journalism, editing and the technical sides of working in radio and the creative industries.

“Our ultimate aim is for the station to be available for the local community online, notably parents and carers, bringing in guest speakers from local businesses, well-known characters and media professionals, forming new partnerships in north west Wales and beyond.”

Simon added: “The enthusiasm and creativity of the students so far has really impressed me; the teamwork has been fantastic and I’m very confident that we will see some very positive outcomes both from a school and skills perspective before too long.

“I’m certain we have some shining stars in our midst and I’m hoping by working on this project we will help the pupils hone their business and communication potential.”

The learners will also explore what content to air, and different formats such as podcasts, streaming platforms, interviews and news affecting the city, and wider region.

They are also looking to attract sponsors, grant opportunities and advertisers to help fund equipment and relevant costs, with plans for events and activities this summer, in addition to social media and a web presence.

“A solid proposal in these areas should help demonstrate both the academic value and financial viability of a school radio station, paving the way for long-term success and community impact,” said Jacky.

“We are in the early stages but have already made progress and the challenge now is to meet deadlines and milestones, engage with the community and ensure when it’s time to launch we know our audience and have everything in place to deliver programming which is both educational and entertaining – we look forward to sharing more news soon!”

For more news and information from St Gerard’s School, visit the website www.st-gerards.org and follow them on social media. Alternatively, email sgadmin@st-gerards.org or call 01248 351656.

News

250+ Welsh start-ups and entrepreneurs boosted by business hub backing

HUNDREDS of start-ups and small businesses have been transformed with the support of an innovative business hub.

A staggering 258 new and existing companies in Gwynedd and Anglesey received backing from Menter Môn Enterprise Hub (Hwb Menter) in the last 18 months.

The organisation has two main locations, M-SParc in Gaerwen and Hwb Arloesi, Porthmadog, and facilitated a £2,500 ‘start-up support package’ which included access to one-to-one advice and information, technology, financial guidance and more.

They also welcomed up to 500 people for a series of online and in-person networking and training events across the year.

Menter Môn – which according to an external evaluation report made an “important contribution to the entrepreneurial landscape in Gwynedd and Anglesey” – was praised for the “seamless support experience” it provided participants.

Among them was award-winning XR Creative Director Klaire Tanner, from Llanrug, who said: “They genuinely cared to help, they were prompt in sending me any templates, talking me through the processes, and helping me gain the funding I needed to start. They also sent me on workshops for business.

“I honestly wouldn’t know what I would have done if it wasn’t for Hwb Menter’s support.”

Emma Roberts and Vicky Roberts from Kico’s Dessert Bar in Llangefni also thanked Hwb Menter for its support in getting their venture off the ground.

“We realised there was a gap in the market for this kind of establishment and with our business adviser, Aled, were able to draw up plans, look at cash flow projections and grants and he was on hand with advice throughout the start-up process,” said Emma.

Vicky added: “We also took part in online workshops which were especially helpful with things we had never learnt before, from accounts to using social media to generate publicity.”

Mark Chapman, Master Carpenter and Managing Director at Arfon Timber Frames in Caernarfon, echoed those words.

Grant funding enabled them to achieve industry accreditation and join professional trade bodies, all of which supported growth last year.

“We have had a lot of enquiries and seven people now work for us in total,” said Mark.

“The grant was a big help in us achieving accreditation, we would not have been able to go for these things and achieve them in our first year if not for help from Hwb Menter.”

Hwb Menter Project Manager, Sara Lois Roberts paid tribute to their “incredible team” for having such a positive effect on so many entrepreneurs across the region in such a short space of time.

“It is truly amazing how far we have reached, and how many small businesses have benefited from our support,” she said.

“For some, the financial backing was pivotal in taking next steps, for others it was advice and signposting, desk space, building confidence and meeting others to share best practice.

“We are so glad to have made a difference and hope we can continue to do so for the many hundreds of business owners in Gwynedd and Anglesey contributing so much to the local economies, creating employment opportunities and developing innovative ideas in a wide range of industries.”

For more on how the Enterprise Hub can help, email post@hwbmenter.cymru or call 01248 858 070.

Alternatively, visit www.hwbmenter.cymru or follow @hwbmenter on social media. 

News

Construction begins on new £150k North Wales school sports complex

WORK is underway on the construction of a new £150,000 sports facility at a top 10 independent school.

St Gerard’s School is building a state-of-the-art multi-use games area (MUGA) at its seven-acre Ffriddoedd Road site in Bangor.

Set for completion in March, the development will feature a ‘next generation’ artificial grass surface, toilet block and changing rooms, parking spaces, upgraded fencing and landscaping, and, subject to planning permission, floodlights.

The investment follows a series of internal and external improvements at the school, which produces some of the best A Level and GCSE results year on year in Wales and was ranked eighth in the country in the Sunday Times Parent Power Guide.

Business Manager Steve Griffiths said they will continue to renovate and revamp the cherished institution while retaining their core values and reputation for academic excellence and providing a safe, welcoming environment for learners.

“The new facilities will be a brilliant addition to the site and further improve our physical education provision,” he said.

“Construction is well underway and the ‘next generation’ pitch will be top of the range, making this one of the best outdoor sporting surfaces in the region.

“Long-term there will be opportunities to capitalise on the MUGA as a potential revenue stream given there is demand in north west Wales for places to play five-a-side football, netball, hockey, tennis, basketball and more.

“There is room for two netball or basketball courts, one seven-a-side football pitch and use for other games and sports as well – it’s going to be epic, and we can’t wait to see the completed project.”

He added: “We have further plans for the site, but ultimately the top priority is providing our pupils with the very best teaching in a high-quality setting.”

Having achieved a 16% rise in learners in 2024 – and with further growth expected in Years 12 and Year 7 – St Gerard’s is well placed to sustain its position as an industry leader in the face of “huge challenges” facing the private education sector.

Headteacher Campbell Harrison said: “Redevelopment of our sports facilities is just one of the ways we are looking to capitalise on our footprint and place here in the centre of Bangor.

“We have demonstrated commitment to pupils, their families and our community with a major investment programme which also included a revamp of the Sixth Form suite, the library, the car park, a ‘wellness walk’, roof repairs, a rebrand of the logo and website, and a £150,000 heating system.

“There are further ideas in the pipeline, and we will continue raising the bar as the largest and most academically successful independent school in Gwynedd and Anglesey – something we are very proud of.”

For more news and information from St Gerard’s School, and to visit the open event, visit the website www.st-gerards.org and follow them on social media.

Alternatively, email sgadmin@st-gerards.org or call 01248 351656.

News

Public sector supply chain events to whet appetite of food producers in Wales

Workshops to shine a light on supplying food and drink to the public sector in Wales.

Organised by Business Wales, the events will be held in the new year and will begin with a virtual session on Social Value in the Public Sector with Ian McGrady, Director of Ellesmere Port-based Edsential Catering, and Huw Griffiths, Procurement Adviser at Gwynedd County Council, on 22nd January.

This will be followed by an interactive presentation on 28th January, focusing on Welsh public sector supply chains, particularly NHS procurement, including frameworks and tendering processes.

There will also be a session for food procurement teams and SMEs on joint-bidding and the importance of taking a share in the market, on 11th February.

Delivered by Jane Lynch, Professor of Procurement at Cardiff Business School, it will explore how to forge relationships and give examples of best practice and collaborative outcomes.

These workshops are fully funded, and places can be booked at: Business Wales Events Finder – Business Wales.

Menter Môn’s Food Project Manager, David Wylie, said: “Via Business Wales we have worked hard to provide independent producers, small businesses, and larger companies in Wales with a platform to break into public sector supply chains. Whether that be local authorities, schools, hospitals or relevant organisations, we want to encourage the use of more local food and drink in their menus.

“Doing so has a major impact on the environment as it lowers their carbon footprint but also supports regional economies across the country, which in turn has a knock-on effect for employment.

“Local produce can also be more nutritious as it hasn’t travelled hundreds or in some case thousands of miles. The benefits are limitless.”

Examples of recent projects include the Larder Cymru Welsh Food for Schools scheme, backed by the Welsh Government Foundational Economy Team, which promotes Welsh produce and producers from across Wales and highlights how, by buying from them, schools will shorten their supply chains, encouraging sustainability, lowering carbon emissions and increasing profitability.

The upcoming sessions will further develop these ideas, notably the workshop on public sector frameworks, which aims to equip attendees with the knowledge and insight into how best to navigate them.

“For some businesses procurement and frameworks will be an unknown quantity, as often they are aimed at larger companies, but by collaborating and working together producers can apply and will have a very good chance of being successful,” said David.

“Focusing on objectives, scope, accreditation and compliance requirements, tendering procedures, and more will be key themes looked at by our experts, who have a lot of experience in these areas and are here to help.”

He added: “The ultimate aim is for more public sector bodies in Wales to be using local produce, supporting local businesses and becoming more sustainable, with the target of net zero and a boost to the economy.

“These workshops will be invaluable for producers at a crucial time for the food sector nationwide, so we hope to see a good mix of procurement, catering, and carbon officers, as well as suppliers and distributors wanting to explore new opportunities.”

For a full list of dates and more information, email david@mentermon.com. Alternatively, follow Business Wales on social media and visit Business Wales

News

Council leads way on school menus by almost doubling spend on Welsh produce

PRIMARY schools have given small businesses and independent producers a well-deserved break in partnership with Larder Cymru.

Caerphilly County Borough Council is the first in Wales to fully implement a new menu featuring their Welsh supply base following a test period earlier this year.

With support from the Larder Cymru Welsh Food for Schools initiative, Caerphilly was one of six counties – the others being Wrexham, Flintshire, Anglesey, Gwynedd, and Cardiff – to use more locally sourced ingredients in their St David’s Day dinner menus.

Now, following the success of the initiative – delivered by Menter Môn and supported by the Welsh Government’s Foundational Economy Backing Local Firms Fund – the council has almost doubled the amount it spends on Welsh produce.

Marcia Lewis, Principal Officer for Caerphilly’s catering service, said they have made huge strides in the two years since the Universal Primary Free School Meals (UPFSM) programme was rolled across Wales to help combat the cost-of-living crisis.

“Looking back over this period it’s fantastic to see the progress Caerphilly has made,” she added.

“We were fortunate to hit our target a year ahead of schedule which was a true reflection of the commitment and determination of all involved in making it a great success.

“All this was achieved whilst prioritising the use of local produce on school menus, which not only enhances the project’s value for pupils but also supports the local economy and promotes sustainability.”

Marcia says closer links with Larder Cymru and working alongside the talented Michelle Griffiths from Rose-Innes Design, and photographer Huw Jones – who together created vibrant, informative menus for the schools – also had a positive impact.

“The dedication to provide free meals to all primary-aged pupils means Caerphilly is setting a positive precedent for other authorities,” said Marcia.

“Access to nutritious meals is crucial for children’s development, learning, and well-being, and our proactive approach showcases a commitment to making a meaningful difference in learners’ lives whilst increasing local products and the supply chain.”

Among the companies supplying the schools are Llaeth y Llan village dairy, Woosnam Dairies, Brace’s Family Bread, Castell Howell, The Celtic Pie Co, Ellis Eggs, Celtica, Authentic Curries and World Foods, Celtic Pride, Langford’s, Popty Bakery, Bishop, Dragon, Mario’s Welsh ice cream, and Farm Fresh meat specialists.

The news of Caerphilly’s achievement coincides with LACA’s National School Meals Week (NSMW24) which runs until Friday and promotes the role school meals play in children’s mental wellbeing as well as physically and academically, with events and activities taking place across the UK.

Michelle has designed for many brands over the years, including major high street retailers, and was even an advisor to esteemed chef Marco Pierre White.

She says this was one of the most rewarding briefs she has been tasked with, adding: “I went all out to design engaging menus with professional photos of mouthwatering meals that showcased this quality food and nutritious ingredients. Supplier brand logos were used on the menu footer along with Welsh dragon icons to indicate Welsh produce was used.

“Great school dinners in Caerphilly with lower food miles as well as an uplift to the Welsh economy – this is a win!”

Menter Môn’s Food Project Manager David Wylie says the Caerphilly model could now be replicated by other local authorities in Wales.

“They have shown a real determination to make this work and been a huge supporter of local producers in their region, which is demonstrated by both the uplift in spend and the number of pupils signing up for free school meals,” he added.

“We are working side-by-side with them and other councils to instil change, boost local economies and bolster supply chains while promoting sustainability and helping families at a challenging time economically.

“We have incredible food and drink producers all over Wales and it’s important we get behind them while ensuring future generations have access to nutritious, affordable food and drink – this is a fantastic first step in that direction.”

News

Welsh food producers unite to cook-up sustainable ways to boost economy and tackle poverty

FOOD and drink companies united to showcase their products and cook-up new ways to tackle poverty and benefit the Welsh economy.

Gwynedd and Ynys Môn Food Partnership hosted the event at the popular Catch 22 Brasserie in Valley, near Holyhead.

More than 35 people were in attendance, celebrating the value of the Partnership – which is delivered by Menter Môn on behalf of the two local authorities – and its mission to supply nutritious, locally sourced and sustainable food to communities in the region.

Lowering the sector’s carbon footprint in north west Wales, healthy living and targeting the cost-of-living crisis are other aims of the collective.

Among those in attendance was Dafydd Jones, who alongside wife Dawn manages Llanddaniel-based Anglesey Bees.

He said: “Building in opportunities for our customer base to meet and chat with us and put a face to our company is crucial to developing our brand, and brand loyalty.

“We are passionate about biodiversity, sustainable food production, science education and connecting with nature, so this was a great event for us.”

Neil Davies, head chef and proprietor at Catch 22 agreed and said regular meetings will further reinforce the importance of the hospitality industry locally as it continues to build back from the pandemic.

“It was brilliant to meet with regular suppliers and local producers, and to welcome some new faces as well,” he added.

“The event was a big success and shows how pivotal the Partnership is, and the value of food and drink to the economy here.”

The forum also included stalls, networking and discussions over how best, as a group, to capitalise on opportunities to work together and localise supply chains.

Neil and wife Mel gave a presentation on the success and story of Catch 22, followed by a Q&A and panel conversation with Medwyn and Alwyn Williams from Llysiau Medwyn; Bragdy Cybi; Llaeth Medra’s Huw Jones, and Dafydd and Dawn from Anglesey Bees.

Among those exhibiting on the day were Anglesey Foods, Ored Foods, Derw Coffee, Tyddyn Teg, Gwenyn Mon, Llysiau Medwyn, Cosyn Cymru, Bragdy Cybi, Mon Bakery and Y Cwt Mwg.

Menter Môn’s Food Project Manager David Wylie thanked them and said the Partnership has played a vital role in creating new relationships and links among small businesses and venues in Gwynedd and Ynys Môn.

“It was a very positive event and a platform to explore and identify the challenges these producers are facing, while working together to find solutions,” said David.

“The feedback has been incredibly positive and I’m sure being in the same room and able to discuss local supply chains and prospective commercial opportunities in person will be of great benefit to those in attendance.

“We would like to thank everyone who came along, and of course Catch 22 and Lafan Consulting for helping to host and organise the event.”

In 2022, the Welsh Government announced £3million in funding to support the development of cross-sector food partnerships and to strengthen existing projects to help build resilience in local food networks while tackling the root-causes of food poverty.

These partnerships were tasked with joining up, drawing in support and expertise from other services such as Public Health Wales, Welsh housing associations and advice services, and to understand and address local need.

News

Major developments at independent school follow pupil rise and summer investment

THE academic year is off to a first class start at one of the country’s leading independent schools.

St Gerard’s School in Bangor has brought all its pupils – primary and secondary – under the same roof for the first time in its 109-year history.

The move follows a summer of huge investment at the Ffriddoedd Road site, including a new car park and toilet block, access, fencing, furniture, and signage, a major overhaul of the roof, and a £150,000 revamped heating system featuring seven state-of-the-art boilers.

After securing some of the best GCSE and A Level results in Wales – more than double the national average at grades A*/A for both qualifications – headteacher Campbell Harrison said September heralded a new dawn for St Gerard’s, ahead of a raft of further developments in the coming months.

“Bringing the primary school children into the main building and investing further in the facilities for them – including new uniforms – and all our learners was crucial,” he said.

“We want to make this a warm, welcoming environment for everyone, following a 16% rise in pupils over the last 12 months, and have done so with these improvements.

“St Gerard’s was already a positive setting for children and staff, and we have built on that with renovations and a rebrand that take us forward into this academic year with confidence.”

Following the installation of an extended ‘wellness walk’ and play surfaces, future proposals on-site centre around sports facilities – five-a-side pitches, tennis courts and a Multi-Use Games Area (MUGA).

Business Manager Steve Griffiths said national challenges in the sector can be navigated with the continued support of parents, carers and the community, and they are looking forward to welcoming families and prospective pupils to a ‘cake, coffee and open day’ from 9am until 4pm on Friday September 27, in aid of Macmillan Cancer Support.

“We have invested significantly in chairs, desks, equipment and more for the pupils, so both the internal and external areas of the school have been transformed,” said Steve.

“The sixth form common room and libraries will also undergo refurbishment – including digital platforms and screens – and the sports provision is another major development, with us already applying for planning permission for floodlights to extend usage of the facilities.

“We have big plans but most importantly, given the incredible results achieved by our learners in the summer, the academic side is going from strength to strength.

“The open day is an opportunity for us to raise funds for charity and also showcase the improvements we have made to existing and potential pupils and their families – we look forward to seeing you all soon.”

For more news and information from St Gerard’s School, visit the website www.st-gerards.org and follow them on social media. Alternatively, email sgadmin@st-gerards.org or call 01248 351656.