Member Article

Early Birds catch the worm!

A new Early Birds club at a Newcastle school has received funding from intu Eldon Square shopping centre for the next eighteen months.

The £1000 donation is part of an ongoing commitment to Hadrian School, one of intu Eldon Square’s chosen charities of the year, which caters for primary aged children with severe, profound and complex learning difficulties.

Hadrian School, in Benwell, has recently introduced the Early Birds club which allows pupils to arrive at 8.15 am, take part in activities with friends and enjoy drinks and snacks before the school day begins. A fifth of families are already taking advantage of the club and numbers are on the rise.

David Palmer, Business Manager at Hadrian School, said:

“Many parents at Hadrian School have been affected by recent reductions in funding, which include losing their entitlement to have their child taken to and from school. This has been particularly challenging for working families as well as a threat to the stability and routine that their children require.

“This magnificent donation will enable Hadrian School to continue the Club for the next eighteen months, helping to buy snacks, drinks and activity equipment such as art and craft items.

“It also allows us to invite more children to the Early Birds club, which really helps to stabilise our children’s routine in the morning, both at home and at school. Thanks so much to intu for enabling us to support not only the children but their families too.”

Clare Cannon, community manager intu north east, added:

“We’re so proud to support Hadrian School’s fantastic new initiative. The club provides children at the school with a reassuringly reliable routine in a fun and supportive environment and this is invaluable in helping them reach their full potential.”

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by Suhaine Baptie .