The Harpenden Trust was pleased to help children at the Lea Primary School and Nursery enjoy their Early Years playground even more, by giving a Community Fund grant to buy some fantastic new play equipment (reported in The Herts Advertiser, 1 October, 2020).
James Berry, Headteacher at the Lea Primary School and Nursery, said of the playground facilities – which include a new climbing frame, water feature and music zone – have been a “game-changing” addition to the school, with children in the reception and nursery classes now able to enjoy a range of stimulating activities while they learn together outside.
Katy Hamilton, PTA Vice Chair at the Lea Primary School and Nursery, said: “We are so grateful to the Harpenden Trust. They have been supportive and interested in our school community throughout and we look forward to continuing our partnership in the future.”
The Harpenden Trust’s Community Fund provides financial support for community projects in the Harpenden area with grants for specific projects designed to develop, improve or enhance their work or for facilities for their members. The Community Fund Committee meets 4 times a year - in January, April, July and October to consider applications.
Steve Pryor, Chairman of the Community Fund at the Harpenden Trust explains more:
“The Harpenden Trust’s Community Fund exists to help all Harpenden residents of all ages and with all kinds of activities - the added value achieved is usually considerable and this project is an excellent example of this. School budgets are under extreme pressure and we know that the involvement of the Harpenden Trust adds considerable value in allowing pupils to benefit which would not be possible without the Trust's involvement.”
“When assessing projects it is not just a matter of agreeing but also working closely with the beneficiaries to ensure the money is available to meet the project's timescale and to provide assistance if needed to bring the project to fruition. Close involvement of the Trust over the course of the project enables the Trust to fully understand the benefits which are often not necessarily apparent when initially reviewing the written application. We were pleased to work with both the Lea Primary School and Nursery, but also with their PTA team who were fundraising for this project alongside the grant. It is great to see the new equipment in use and the difference it has made to the children using it, which showcases what a worthy project it was to be involved in.”
The Community Fund favours grant applications for specific projects. It does not offer funding to cover regular expenses, salaries or deficits. A grant application form is available here, you can request one by emailing the Community Fund or you can drop by and pick up a copy from the Office at the Trust's Centre in Southdown. Applications should reach the Trust's office by the first Friday of the month preceding the next Community Fund meeting, but this can vary occasionally so please check with the Office.
17 November 2020