Fairton School pupils are relieved to be splashing into summer as temperatures soar.
After facing the prospect of their leaking school pool being closed for the season, it has now opened. It comes as Mid Canterbury is graced with hot sunny days, the mercury having climbed to 30 degrees twice this month in Ashburton, and to the mid-20s most other days.
Principal Jude Irwin said staff and parents were amazed how quickly a major fundraising project was supported. ‘‘We really thought we were not going to be able to open the pool this season,’’ Irwin said. ‘‘The kids are enjoying it every day now, and the community have got it to use over the school holidays.’’
Thanks to Fairton Home and School, a supportive community, and $41,737 grant, the pool’s lining was replaced by fibreglass. In mid-winter, Fairton Home and School members made a public appeal for funds. It was following a $10,000 district council grant and $2000 from a pie fundraiser, towards a goal of $70,000.
The school, which has a roll of about 40, announced it had been a recipient of the grant, from the Braided Rivers Community Trust Ashburton in partnership with The Lion Foundation, in July.
Irwin said fundraising towards the goal was still under way, as extra tasks besides the lining needed to be undertaken.
Fairton Home and School spokesperson Kim Mcilwaine said fundraising activities had included a movie night through the Regent Cinema, selling Whittaker’s chocolate, and serving at annual Talley’s Christmas party.
Thanks was also due many businesses which donated raffle prizes, and the many parents and teachers who gave up their time, the latter including Room 1 teacher Louise Smith, who had spent time on applying for the grant.
‘‘Everyone fully supported the fundraising campaign, which made it a lot less challenging.’’
