University donates 120 items to Ipswich schools
More than 120 items of furniture no longer needed by the University of Suffolk have been donated to three Ipswich schools, saving them from waste.
Why it matters: Dale Hall Primary School, Sidegate Lane Primary School and Claydon High School have all benefitted from the donation, which included sofas, tables and laboratory desks.
The details: Building works at the university's Waterfront Building, James Hehir Building and Library Building left the furniture without a use, making it available for donation.
Claydon High School received 16 laboratory desks, installed by university contractor Seamans Building. Dale Hall Primary School received a total of 89 items of furniture.
What they're saying: Mark Ismay, headteacher of Claydon High School, said: "We are absolutely thrilled to extend our heartfelt thanks to the University of Suffolk for their incredibly generous donation of a brand-new, full classroom set of specialist science tables and stools.
"Our science faculty has already put these to use, and they have instantly transformed the learning environment.
"This donation is a perfect example of why collaboration between schools and higher education is so beneficial. Partnerships like this bridge the gap between school-level learning and the exciting world of university research and future careers."
Leo, a pupil at Dale Hall Primary School, said: "It comes from the bottom of our hearts when we say that we're truly thankful for the furniture the university donated to us.
"It makes us feel special because no other years in our school have something so luxurious. It has transformed our class and we are truly grateful."
The bigger picture: Tim Clemons, sustainability manager at the University of Suffolk, said one of the university's core sustainability goals is to divert as much waste from landfill as possible.
"Several major projects have generated significant volumes of surplus materials," he added. "Through engagement with local schools and charities, we have been able to donate suitable items for reuse, reducing waste, supporting the circular economy and delivering positive community benefits."
For context: The university opened its new library in the Waterfront Building in March, and the first facilities for the new MPharm Pharmacy course in the Health and Wellbeing Building have recently been completed.
The bottom line: The donation has turned surplus furniture from the university's building works into a welcome boost for three Ipswich schools.
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