Primary School Pool Set to Reopen Following Successful Fundraising Efforts

The outdoor swimming pool at Leonard Stanley C of E Primary School, located near Stroud in Gloucestershire, is scheduled to reopen next year. This follows a significant fundraising campaign conducted by the school’s staff, parents, and the local community. The pool had been closed for two years due to the development of cracks in its foundations. Various activities, including non-uniform days, sponsored walks, and a skydive, helped raise the £55,000 required to commence the necessary repairs. This work is anticipated to be completed by Christmas. Ally Higgins, who chairs the school’s Parent Teacher Association, stated, “It’s just amazing for the kids.” She added, “It’s been the biggest community effort to get the pool rebuilt and we’re hoping to get the community involved to make sure as many people as possible get to use it.” Lisa Williams, the school’s office manager and a former pupil, commented, “There’s nothing better than hearing the children laughing and splashing on a summer’s evening, it just makes you proud that you’ve got this wonderful asset.” The pool’s official reopening is planned for the May half term, coinciding with warmer temperatures. Beyond offering a venue for pupils’ swimming lessons, the pool will also be accessible to local residents on weekends and during school holidays. A paid summer membership program has been established, with all funds generated contributing to the scheme’s operational costs. Ms Higgins also mentioned, “We’re also looking at opening up to the other schools and maybe doing a mums and tots or retirees swimming mornings.” Although the pool construction is complete, fundraisers have indicated that additional funds are required for ongoing improvements. The next priority is the changing rooms, which Ms Williams noted have remained unaltered since the 1970s.