A new sensory unit in Kilmarnock designed to provide a ‘calming sanctuary’ for young people with communications disorders and autism, has been created by a team of ‘industrious apprentices’ in just 40 hours, with the support of partner contractors and suppliers, including CMS Window Systems.
The new Snow White and the Seven Dwarves themed wooden cabin, garden and sensory facility at Crosshouse Primary School, were created to cater for more than 40 children within the school, which previously did not have a space for their needs. The facility went from the drawing board to being built and ready to use in record time thanks to the ‘heroic’ efforts of a team of 18 apprentices working for Morrison Construction and its supply chain, plus departments across East Ayrshire Council.
The construction of the new Crosshouse Communications Unit, which the deputy head teacher at the school says will have a massive impact on the day to day health and wellbeing of the pupils, was undertaken as part of the annual Ayrshire Chamber Modern Apprenticeship Challenge 2017. It brought together trainees studying for SVQs in horticulture, electrical, administration and joinery under the team name “EAC United”, reflecting their numerous different disciplines. They were joined by other modern apprentices and time served craftsmen from the private sector companies involved, to pull off the amazing feat.
Supporting EAC United was CMS Window Systems, which fabricated and supplied all the PVC-U windows, French doors and entrance doors for the building, which has been nicknamed the “Happy Hive”.
Andy Kerr, managing director at CMS Window Systems, said: “The new Crosshouse Communications Unit project was such an exciting project to get involved with, and we were delighted when we were asked to provide our support. Its creation has benefited so many groups, including the next generation of tradesmen and women, but most of all the young people who will ultimately use the superb new addition to their school.”
