Bon-Accord Government Primary Launches Innovative 'Reading Garden'
The Bon-Accord Government Primary School in Tobago is leading the way on the island with the establishment of a ‘Reading Garden’ on the school’s grounds.
The first phase of the project was launched on Friday and is supported by the government, community stakeholders, the school’s alumni, and corporate sponsors.
The principal, Ms. Desma Frank, said the Reading Garden represents more than just a physical space, outlining objectives that were clear to everyone involved.
« Transformation – Convert a section of our school grounds into a powerful, natural reading area. Provide students with a stimulating space for reading, reflection and study. Environmental stewardship: Incorporate sustainable materials, greenery, and design features that nurture environmental awareness and pride in our surroundings. »
The project was sponsored by the National Gas Company of Trinidad and Tobago in the initial stage. It was also supported by the Ministry of Culture and Community Development. Deputy Permanent Secretary Martel Waldron said the project’s launch is the fruit of vision, partnership and perseverance. He added that the initiative aligns with the Ministry’s national policy.
« It was developed as part of the implementation of the national policy on sustainable community development which guided organisations and residents of this community to pursue development around four interrelated pillars of social, human, economic, cultural, and environmental development. The Green Reading Room sits at the intersection of human capital development and environmental development. »
Secretary Zorisha Hackett expressed that she readily approved the project since it not only benefits the students but also is not dependent on the THA.
« Your hard work is visible in this beautiful space and in the pride of the students who will use it. This project also teaches an important lesson about partnership. The government cannot achieve these outcomes alone, we know that, and therefore a community has to collaborate with us, and I love that, because the community can’t do it alone since it is a government primary school. But when we both join hands, when we both share the same vision for our children, projects like this one move from an idea to an accomplishment. »
Speaking to the students, Acting Vice Principal Chance Stewart reminded them that the project is focused on their development.
« It was built with you in mind, and we know you will use it to grow, learn and excel. Reading is the foundation of all learning. When a child opens a book, they open the door to new ideas and new opportunities. This reading room will serve as a safe, inspiring, and nurturing environment where every student can build strong literacy skills and develop a lifelong love for reading. »
The audiovisual room, which is the first part of the Reading Garden, was opened on Friday, with additional amenities to be constructed in the near future, including a gazebo and shaded seating areas.
