Last week, everyone at Walford Primary School was celebrating an incredible achievement, the official opening of the impressive Walford Primary School iLearn Centre.

Former pupil, Adam Parkes, who is now a student at Monmouth School for Boys was invited to join the celebrations and said: “Four years ago, as President of the School Council, I said it was an honour and a privilege to be involved in leaving a lasting legacy at my Primary School. Today, I could not be prouder to see that dream become a reality!”

Four years ago, members of the School Council had an exciting idea to build a new learning space. As a Regional Training Centre for Apple technology, the children decided to put their computing skills to the test and made a film which they sent to a number of businesses asking for help. They were absolutely thrilled when their film-making genius was recognised and the National Grid awarded the school £38,000.

This news so inspired the whole school community that they set out to continue to work hard towards securing their goal – cake sales, sponsored events, summer and Christmas fayres, to name but a few events that were organised, alongside the generous donations of other businesses who have supported the ongoing work of the school.

Headteacher, Louise George said, “This project has been a fantastic learning opportunity for us all, especially our pupils. Together, we have learned that when we encounter problems and difficulties, and there have been quite a few, we find solutions. We have learned that anything worth having doesn’t come easy and we have also learned to be positive, patient and committed, but most importantly, to never give up.”

Paul Deneen OBE JP DL, Chair of the Board of Governors thanked Anthea McIntyre MEP for opening the new facility. He said: “This will enhance the learning opportunities for the pupils at the school. We were delighted that Anthea was able to join us as she lives in Walford, and as a former Governor has been a great supporter of the school over many years.’

He added, “The superb input in relation to speeches and music from the pupils together with Adam Parkes, former President of the School Council, made the occasion so very special. The work of Louise George, Head Teacher, teachers, support staff, pupils, governors, builders - Cabin Co, National Grid, Cargill, Walford Timber, Sainsbury’s, Labels, Pashley Trust and the Parent Teacher and Friends Association at the school, have made what was originally just an idea into a reality.”