SUPPORTERS of an inclusion centre at a Droitwich school have come together to see how their funding has improved the centre.

The Inclusion Centre was established nine years ago to provide a sanctuary for the children at Droitwich Spa High School. The aim was to provide a place of safety and enjoyment to meet the many needs of vulnerable students.

Paul Buckell, who is the head of inclusion at Droitwich Spa High School, said: “From the early days David Hemming and the Council saw the benefits of the centre, and since then they have continued to support us with funding and advice.”

Support from Wychavon District Council has helped fund outdoor areas with exercise machines, swing-ball, table tennis, table football and darts.

The Council has also provided funding for substantial all-weather covering, which enables activities to take place outside even on the wettest of days.

Other recent improvements to the centre include a punch bag, speed ball and other boxing equipment to keep students active at break and lunchtimes.

External funding has also helped to develop the immensely popular animal zone - with rabbits, guinea pigs and chickens, along with the nature/nurture zone that encourages the wildlife around the Salwarpe and Elmbridge Brook rivers.

Dave Hemming, Wychavon’s community safety manager, said: “We’re proud to be a supporter of the Inclusion Centre, which does so much excellent work for some of the most vulnerable students at the High School.

"The centre works closely with those individual students and their families to ensure that they are being adequately and appropriately educated and personally supported within the school.

"It has been a delight to see the centre develop over time and I am pleased that community safety funding has assisted in that development.”

Mr Buckell added: “There is much to do for this project to be successful and the cost will be a challenge, but with the support of establishments such as Wychavon District Council it means we are not daunted by such demands.

"It is difficult to put into words the gratitude of all the staff at the inclusion centre for the wonderful support given to us by David and the Council, but it has really made a difference to the centre and the lives of the children who use it.”