The Foundation’s Head Office building, located in the village at cinch Stadium at Franklin’s Gardens, and home to its Engage+ and HITZ programmes, as well as the Foundation Head Office team, has undergone a much-needed refurbishment.
The refurbishment began with the help of Mick Phillips, from MP Electrical who donated his time to relocate the electrics to enable the wall between the main office and classroom to be removed. This instantly created a bright, open and spacious room for the Foundations HITZ students to work in. A new office space was created for the Foundations Managing Director and Head of Foundation and office staff moved into a room which connects to the kitchen.
The most noticeable difference throughout the Foundation building is the brand-new flooring kindly donated and fitted by Northants Flooring. The team worked tirelessly to remove the old carpet and flooring, level the area and replace with wood effect lino creating a warm environment, all in time for the new academic year.
Long term sponsor of Northampton Saints, Travis Perkins, kindly donated all the paint and materials needed to redecorate, as once the floor was laid it was hands on deck for the Foundation team, and volunteers, to paint the walls in its signature branded grey. The Foundation would like to extend its thanks to Northampton Saints Team Manager Paul Shields who kindly volunteered his time to help paint.
Foundation partner MPA donated their white office desks, following an office move, meaning more students can sit round larger tables, have more space and can work collaboratively which has made an immeasurable difference to the learning environment.
"The Foundation are extremely thankful for the support of local businesses and our staff as without their generosity, time and effort the substantial change to the work and learning environment would not have been possible".
Catherine Deans, Managing Director
Belmont Press added the finishing touches with a vinyl Foundation logo and an award board which proudly displays the names of the award winners at the Foundations annual awards ceremony. A special recognition board was also added to celebrate the young people who have progressed to work with the Foundation team, selected as the annual Henry Sale Foundation Apprentice.
Catherine Deans, Managing Director said “The Foundation are extremely thankful for the support of local businesses and our staff as without their generosity, time and effort the substantial change to the work and learning environment would not have been possible. The Foundation has grown significantly over the last year, expanding to meet the increase in demand for our services, inextricably linked to the pandemic, meaning more young people than ever need our support. Having a contemporary, warm and friendly environment, where young people feel welcome, safe, happy and engaged to learn is key. I couldn’t be more pleased with the result of the refurbishment work”.
To celebrate, the Foundation is holding an open day on Thursday 14th October 10am-2pm, supported by The Roastery who will be serving fresh coffee. Individuals, businesses and partners are welcome to meet the team, have a tour around the building and find out about the Foundation and its programmes. If you would like to attend, please contact [email protected].