The Damara School in Thetford excited for growth after being leased historic Raymond Street building
The Damara School in Thetford is poised for significant growth and enhanced service delivery following the acquisition of a lease for The Maltings, a historic building located on Raymond Street. This pivotal development, facilitated by Breckland Council, provides the specialist school with a welcoming and secure environment, enabling it to expand its vital work with children who find traditional educational settings challenging. The Damara School Thetford, operated by Lotus Trust Ltd, is renowned for its dedication to students aged five to sixteen requiring specialized support for social, emotional, and mental health (SEMH) needs.
Sandra Govender, the chief executive and headteacher of the Damara School, expressed immense excitement about the new premises. She highlighted that The Maltings Thetford will allow the school to increase its capacity to a maximum of 32 students. This expansion is crucial for accommodating more children who experience significant difficulties with their social, emotional, and mental well-being. Ms. Govender reiterated the school's core vision: to provide every child with therapeutic and holistic educational and pastoral development. This approach aims to equip students with the necessary skills and resilience to cope with life's pressures and to contribute positively to society. The move to The Maltings is a testament to this unwavering commitment to fostering each student's full potential.
Local councillors, including Cllr Annie Blackbourn and Cllr Hazel McCambridge representing Thetford's Castle ward, have lauded the agreement, emphasizing its importance in providing a much-needed learning and growth space for young residents, which will ultimately benefit the entire Thetford community. Cllr Paul Hewett, Breckland Council's executive member for property and procurement, described the lease as a reflection of the shared commitment of both the council and the Damara School towards community betterment. He affirmed that this partnership will empower the school to continue offering indispensable services to local children who might otherwise struggle. The expansion of Damara School into The Maltings signifies a promising future for special needs education in Thetford.