Galatea School pool set for a longer season thanks to Trust Horizon grant

Galatea School and community are eagerly anticipating an extended swimming season for students, made possible by a successful Trust Horizon grant. Funding to the amount of $9,266 has been approved for the installation of a heat pump and thermal pool cover, significantly extending the pool’s number of usable months from 2–3 to an impressive 6–7 months each year.

Galatea School, a fully rural primary school, is a pillar within the community. Their team are proud to provide diverse educational opportunities for students. One of these is the teaching of water safety skills through the Aquatics Programme. This programme ensures students develop essential water survival skills, contributing to reduced drowning risks within the community.

A key challenge for the school has been sustainable heating of their pool. Without a cover, the heat was lost rapidly, limiting the swimming season to just a few months. Principal Vanessa Koroa explained, “The swimming season was starting much later because students couldn’t stay in the water for long.” The colder temperatures also posed significant barriers for students with additional needs. The new heat pump and thermal cover has helped to address this challenge, increasing accessibility and inclusion for all students. “It makes a huge difference to a small rural school with a limited budget.”

Also highlighted during the application process was the grant’s wider impact: “By investing in energy-efficient initiatives, we can educate our students and community on the importance of being energy-conscious citizens of the future.” Installation of the heat pump and cover is planned for summer 2024/25. The school anticipates that students will be able to enjoy swimming well into term two of 2025.

Yvonne Boyes, Trust Horizon trustee acknowledges the positive impact that this grant will have on the students and alignment with Trust Horizon’s vision, enabling pride, prosperity, and people. “Supporting improved access to essential water survival skills, will be of huge positive benefit to students and their families,” said Boyes. “We are excited to support this transformational opportunity for Galatea School.”

If you want to apply for funding from Trust Horizon, look at our funding page here for more information.