Pupil Council with HT Keira Finlayson-2

Smiles all round as community donates laptops to Fenwick Primary

The smiles said it all at Fenwick Primary as members of the Pupil Council took delivery of 35 state of the art laptops.

The compact computers were donated as a result of a mammoth £10,000 fundraising effort by Fenwick Community Group, Fenwick Parent Council and match funding from East Ayrshire Council. Delighted Head Teacher Keira Finlayson explained the huge difference the new technology will make to the newly refurbished school: “We can’t thank everyone enough for this donation. Having 35 laptops means every child in the school will now have access to them daily, and, with an additional £3000 raised by the Parent Council, we’re also about to take delivery of one ipad for every classroom.

“Having access to technology, with wonderful educational software at their fingertips, will help prepare our pupils for the modern world. These laptops are perfect for the job too. They’re small, lightweight and with touch screens which can be flipped to create a stand, they’re versatile enough for even the smallest and youngest pupil to use.”

Jackie McNeill of the Community Group said: “Our purpose as a Community Group is to run events like Gala Week and the Burns Supper in the village. Any funds we raise are then put back into supporting worthwhile projects  and organisations for the good of its people.

“It’s great to see these young people using these laptops – it’s clear they’ll be a very useful asset to the school and it’s very satisfying for us to know our donation will help and inspire the next generation”

Councillor John McFadzean, a  long term Fenwick resident who has a dual role as local Councillor and supporter of the school said: “Fenwick Primary has undergone a massive refurbishment in recent times, it’s so well equipped and has a friendly and welcoming atmosphere. I’m really pleased that we’ve been able to help improve the whole educational experience with the addition  of these laptops.” 

Fellow local member Councillor John McGhee agreed. “It’s easy to see that the laptops are  already a big hit with the pupils. It’s great that every child in the school will now benefit from their use, improve their skills and be able to access further educational opportunities. And as a Councillor it’s very encouraging to meet the Pupil Council and see a new generation taking their role of representing their fellow pupils so responsibly.”