School honours retired Sue as building opens
A new special educational needs building at a Bath school has been named after a science technician who recently retired after 47 years there.
The Hemmings Centre at Oldfield School is an innovative building, built to accommodate sensory and therapy rooms. The rooms help to develop children’s social and emotional wellbeing, and provide the space for 1-2-1 and small group intervention.
The building is named in recognition of the long service to the school of Sue Hemmings.
Sue, who attended the opening, said: “I was sad to leave Oldfield after all these years, it is a great place with lovely staff and students.
“I was once asked ‘isn’t it boring, doing the same thing all the time?’ but I’m emphatic in the fact that it was never boring, there were always different things to do, and the students always kept it interesting. I am very honoured to be recognised through the naming of the new building.”
The new building incorporates a range of sustainability features, including air source heating, a green roof and the design minimises the visual impact of the structure.
Head teacher Steven Mackay said: “The new building is a real asset to the school, and ensures
we are able to help all abilities within our school community.
“We are grateful to the council (B&NES) for financially supporting this development to enable children to get the support and help they need. It is so important that these students are given the same opportunities as our other students, and the high quality support for students with additional needs aligns with the inclusive ethos of our school.”
Cllr Dine Romero, cabinet member for children and young people, communities and culture at B&NES Council, attended the opening and said: “We are wholly committed to helping every child and young person to reach their
potential, so I’m delighted that we have been able to support this important new facility.
“It’s going to provide the tailored support needed to help students to thrive.”
The council contributed £350,000 to the project and chairman of the council Lisa O’brien formally opened the centre.
She said: “This new facility will facilitate increased, dedicated support for students to encourage, reassure and promote their development.
“Congratulations to Oldfield School on the completion of this important project which, I feel sure, will yield impressive benefits.”