Mears Group transformed a therapeutic classroom for St Aidan’s High School, creating an inclusive, calm learning environment to support local young people.
Located in Wishaw, an area identified within the Scottish Index of Multiple Deprivation, St Aidan’s aimed to tackle local challenges by developing an adaptable space that supports student wellbeing and engagement.
Mears Group coordinated the complete refurbishment of the classroom, bringing together its local supply chain with colleagues who volunteered their time to revitalise the space.
The volunteer team refreshed the space by installing new flooring and windows, painted throughout and added curtains. The addition of dimmable lighting helped enhance the therapeutic experience, creating a more immersive and adaptable environment.
Mears also contributed furniture and a gift card for soft furnishings, empowering pupils to play an active role in shaping their new environment through selecting colours and materials.
Audrey Farley, Head Teacher at St Aidan’s High School, said:
“This project marks a new chapter in the life of our school. It has been the catalyst for a programme of transformative improvements to our school spaces.
“The vision for the space came from the young people themselves and is modelled as a therapeutic classroom providing a safe, homely, supportive environment where our young people can learn, regulate and build connections.
“Mears and their partners have been outstanding. Our young people felt empowered, heard and valued.”
Brian Lafferty, Principal Teacher of Flexible Learning, said:
“The project empowered pupils to take responsibility for their own learning environment, an opportunity that learners took to heart and thoroughly enjoyed working on.
“The renovated space has set the standard for alternative learning environments and handed ownership to the young people.”
Kirstie Jameson, Customer Success Manager at Mears, said:
“Colleagues at Mears’ Coatbridge branch work with local schools and colleges to support future talent, and we were delighted to help St Aidan’s create a space that promotes inclusivity for local young people.
“This project was also incredibly rewarding for our teams, who volunteered their time alongside local partners including McGarry Flooring, Greenerleaf, Millbank Decorators and Elecritcaire.”
As part of its social value commitment, Mears Group provides its employees with two days a year to volunteer for good causes that benefit local communities.
