Surrey Square Pavilion Opening
Master Chef Greg Wallace Opens Dining Pavilion
The sun shone brightly for the opening ceremony of new Pavilion dining room funded by the Aylesbury NDC. The new Pavilion will provide a much needed hall and kitchen space for the schools and will be available for local community use out of school hours.
Pupils and parents had created a range of favourite dishes for the opening event which Greg Wallace tasted in traditional 'Masterchef' style. He commended the talent of the chefs, remarking on the wonderful diversity of London's cultural culinary heritage. The talented school choir serenaded the assembled crowds with a song specially written for the occasion – the lyrics documenting all their favourite school meals. Other pupils acted as enthusiastic guides, encouraging visitors to venture onto the roof, and passing round plates of delicious nibbles.
Though built in the former playground, the Pavilion's innovative green roof design means that no play space is lost. Pupils and visitors alike took great delight in trying out the new slide down the grassy roof!
The sprung floor, acoustic treatment and fully kitted kitchen allow the building to be used throughout the day as a dining room for meals, but also as a creative space for drama, dance or music lessons and performances. Earle Architects innovative design uses many efficient environmental features to provide an attractive, practical and sustainable building. The inspirational design has been recognised by industry experts and has been accepted into the 2010 Royal Academy Summer Exhibition.
Headteacher Liz Robinson said 'The pavilion will solve the pressing need for space within Surrey Square Schools and provide a purpose built creative learning environment for our talented pupils. We will use the space to continue our work encouraging healthy eating and active lifestyles. Thank you to all those involved in bringing this dream into reality'.
Richard McDermott, the interim director of Creation Trust commented – 'Creation and the Aylesbury NDC are proud to have been involved with this project, supporting a fantastic local school and providing a great new resource for the local community.'
