The new Avril Noble Crawford wing at the St. Winefride’s Secondary School was yesterday commissioned by Minister of Education Priya Manickchand allowing students who were previously attending on rotational basis to fully return.
The $85m wing forms part of an initiative to reduce the overcrowding in a number of schools. It includes classrooms to accommodate Grade 9 and 11 students as well as science laboratories. Previously, due to space limitations, students had to attend school on a rotational basis. This was said to be a frustrating period for many parents as expressed by the Parent-Teachers Association (PTA) in September. The new wing not only expands the school’s capacity but ensures that all students can attend classes without the constraints of rotation.
The Headmistress of the school expressed gratitude for the expansion as she stressed on the challenges the school previously faced. She presented tokens of appreciation to two of the Ministry’s officials who she noted spearheaded and saw the project through to the end.
She said that at this time 119 grade 9 students will be housed in the new wing and 21 grade 11 students.
In her address she noted that the Avril Noble Crawford Wing was named in memory of the school’s first Headmistress, who made significant contributions to the field of education. It stands as a tribute to her dedication and legacy, serving as a constant reminder of the impact that passionate educators can have on students.
In a post on the ministry’s Facebook page yesterday, Crawford expressed gratitude.
“My heartfelt appreciation to the management team for selecting my name for the new block at the St Winefride Secondary School.
“I am deeply honored and pray that it serves the purpose for which it has been erected and commissioned.
“My best wishes to all the students and teachers. To God be the Glory!”, she said.
The Minister of Education, charged the students to strive to be the better version of themselves while assuring the students that this is not the end, but the start of something great at the school. It was further noted that the Ministry will soon roll out programmes at the school to enhance student’s capabilities and develop well rounded students.
She said that the new space is not just an area for children to learn but an area where students can aim to advance themselves holistically.
“We would like you all to be well rounded students, however we need to work together. We also need parents to add value to every child that comes and leaves this school”, she said.
The ministry said that the contract for this block was signed in November 2022, and awarded to Singh and Son’s Construction
