Jigsaw Unveils New School Building

Monday, 14 February 2011

Dunsfold Park Ltd was delighted to attend to the official opening of The Jigsaw CABAS® School's new building at Dunsfold Park on Friday 11th February, with guest of honour Phil Packer MBE cutting the ribbon and unveiling the commemorative plaque.

The expansion of the school represents a massive step forward in the charity's development as they celebrate their 12th year of operation. The new facilities at Jigsaw school include a new gymnasium, more classrooms equipped with electronic whiteboards, staff and meeting facilities and a common room for sixth form pupils.  

Ahead of the unveiling, canapés had been made by the students who were also present to help serve guests. Phil Packer, who suffered spinal cord damage whilst serving on operational duty in Her Majesty's Forces in February 2008, formally opened the new facility and then spoke of his own determination to overcome physical challenges in order to raise funds and positive awareness for charities like Jigsaw.

Dunsfold Park Ltd played an integral role in the development of the school by obtaining planning permission for building work and renovations and ensuring the project was completed on time and within budget. Pupils moved into their new building and commenced lessons at the start of January.

Jim McAllister, Chief Executive, Dunsfold Park Ltd comments, "We take great pride in supporting Jigsaw and have been only too happy to help with the expansion of the school.  The opening of the new facilities will not only help with their invaluable teaching but is testament to the dedication and hard work of the staff and supporters."

Jigsaw's hard work and determination has seen them expand from a small bungalow teaching just six pupils with Autism Spectrum Disorders, to a large primary and secondary resource for up to 50 pupils from 5 to 19 years of age, employing more than 80 staff.