Crispin School launches £2.2m bid to build new science wing

A Street school has started a massive fundraising campaign to build a £2.2 million science building.

Staff and students at Crispin unveiled the campaign on Friday afternoon, as well as plans for the school’s long-term future and expansion.

“This is a huge undertaking, and a lot of money to raise,” said Paul James, the head teacher.

“But we see it as an investment – not only for the school, but into the future of our pupils, and generations of pupils to come.”

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Dignitaries including Councillor Valerie Appleby, chairman of Street Parish Council, MP Tessa Munt and representatives from businesses turned out to hear about the school’s plans.

The proposed new science wing will house state of the art laboratories arranged over two floor levels, providing pupils with industry-standard equipment which will help prepare children for careers in science.

The new buildings will be a contemporary design, with aluminum windows, a pitched zinc roof and a central skylight for ventilation and daylight.

As well as the laboratories, there will be a an IT and data logging facility, preparation rooms and a staff office.

Sandra Bartlett, the chair of the board of governors at the school said: “It is vital that our pupils are fully equipped with knowledge and understanding of science, so they can play a part in helping to find solutions to some of the problems facing the world.

“Global warming, new forms of energy, advances in medicine – and to do this, we need to provide them with the best science facilities possible – facilities that will inspire them and help them reach their full potential.”

The school has already raised £500,000 from public donations and has pledged £700,000 towards the build out of its own pockets.

However they still need to raise another £1 million to ensure the project can go ahead.

Tessa Munt helped launch the fundraising appeal last week.

“Helping in any way I can with schools like Crispin is one of the joys of my job,” she said.

Local residents are being asked to get involved with the fundraising through donations, patronage and sponsorship.

They have also signed up to www.easyfundraising.org.uk where donations will be made to the project whenever you shop online.

The school is also offering people the chance to by an element for a huge plaque of the periodic table which will be displayed in the newly-built science wing.

A group of Year 11 pupils who are leaving the school have already clubbed together to buy one element, making sure their names will live on in the school’s history.

Mr James said: “The pupils have really taken this project to heart and are very excited about what we’re trying to achieve.

“I think they understand that at a time when cuts are being cost everywhere you turn, their school and the residents and businesses in the village want to invest in their education, and make sure they have the brightest futures possible.”

For more information on the campaign and ways to donate contact the school on 01458 442714 or email office@crispin.somerset.sch.uk.