Pocklington School is delighted to announce that the Campaign for a new Art and Design Technology Centre has reached its fundraising target of £2 million and has now formally concluded.
This fantastic achievement is thanks to the tremendous generosity of our community of donors which includes Old Pocklingtonians, current and former parents, staff, Governors, Life Patrons, charitable trusts and friends of the School.
The Campaign for the new Art and Design Technology Centre was formally launched in 2015 and was part of the School’s strategic development plan. Boosted by a significant contribution from Old Pocklingtonian Brian Fenwick-Smith, the Campaign quickly gathered momentum and Governors gave the go-ahead for building work to start on the project in August 2016.
Phase One of the new building was ready to move into after the summer exams finished the following June, and teaching began in the new Centre at the start of the 2017 Michaelmas Term. Phase Two of the new building then followed, ready for the second half of term.
The new Centre has been designed to inspire the pursuit of traditional arts and crafts, as well as providing cutting-edge facilities for digital imaging, editing, animation, computer-aided design and manufacturing technology. The Centre is now being fully utilised by staff and students across all year groups, as they pursue their studies in art, DT, photography, sculpture and ceramics.
Christopher Oughtred, Campaign Group Chairman said: “The success of the Campaign is a remarkable achievement for the Pocklington School community, and we thank all our donors who have given so generously. By doing so, they will enable future generations of Pocklingtonians to benefit from the creative spirit that is such a strength of this School, in an inspirational, modern environment.”
Mark Ronan, Headmaster, Pocklington School commented: “Reaching this significant fundraising target is fantastic news and I would like to express my thanks to all the donors who have supported our Campaign and who have made the building of a new Art and Design Centre possible.
It is wonderful to see the new Centre now being used by students and teachers, working to develop the creative skills which are highly regarded by employers from a wide range of industry sectors. The completion of the building provides the School with a legacy which will benefit our students and enhance the estate for generations to come.”
The date for the Official Opening is set for 6pm on Friday 18th May 2018, when the Foundation will be inviting Campaign Donors and special guests for a visit and tour.