Hornchurch, UK – Ardleigh Green Junior School has formally applied to Havering Council to lift the restrictions on its soon-to-be refurbished swimming pool, allowing usage beyond the currently imposed weekday limitations. The school argues that expanded access is essential for its students’ education and extracurricular activities.
The Recorder previously reported that the school had received planning approval to revamp its aging swimming pool, originally built in the 1950s. The refurbishment plan includes a new roof, an upgraded heating system, and improved changing room facilities, ensuring the pool is suitable for year-round use. However, while Havering Council granted conditional approval, it restricted the use of the pool to weekdays between 8 AM and 6 PM.
School Requests Weekend and Bank Holiday Access
In a recent application, the school has requested a revision to this condition, seeking permission to operate the pool on weekends and bank holidays within the same 8 AM to 6 PM time frame. This amendment, according to school representatives, is critical to supporting students who struggle with swimming and require additional instruction outside standard school hours.
Andrew Frater, Chief Operating Officer of Empower Learning Academy Trust, which oversees the school, submitted a formal letter outlining the importance of the requested change.
“We have been granted planning permission to install a glass cover on the roof of our pool to enable year-round use, which we greatly appreciate,” Frater wrote. “However, the new restriction on weekend and bank holiday usage poses challenges for our educational and extracurricular programs.”
Supporting Student Development
Frater emphasized that weekend and holiday access is essential for the school’s nurture lessons, which aim to support weaker swimmers in a focused, less crowded environment. These sessions are designed to provide personalized attention, with a maximum of four students per class, ensuring both safety and effective learning.
“The ability to use the pool during these times is crucial for our planned nurture lessons,” he continued. “These classes will ensure that students who struggle with swimming have the opportunity to build confidence and develop essential life-saving skills.”
Additionally, the school believes that allowing weekend and holiday usage will maximize the pool’s potential, benefiting not only its students but also the broader community. Parents and guardians have expressed support for the initiative, noting that limited weekday access makes it difficult for some children to receive additional swim lessons due to after-school commitments.
Council Decision Expected in April
The request has now been submitted to Havering Council, with a final decision expected by April 16. If approved, the adjustment would enable Ardleigh Green Junior School to enhance its educational offerings and ensure that all students, regardless of their schedules, have ample opportunity to improve their swimming skills.
The school remains hopeful that the council will recognize the benefits of expanded access and grant the necessary approvals to make full use of the newly refurbished pool. This change, they argue, aligns with broader educational goals, promoting student well-being and water safety.
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