Teachers going above and beyond in the fight against coronavirus have received a boost thanks to an unusual library loan from Bolton Council.
Staff at Turton School have been giving a lesson in community spirit by working flat out to manufacture PPE (personal protective equipment) for key workers in Bolton.
Bolton Council has now helped out by lending the school the central library’s 3D printer to help them craft even more protective visors.
Led by Sarah Murphy and Rachel Clare, heads of technology at the school, teachers have been working hard to keep up with the local demand for PPE.
Staff are working from 7am to 6pm to produce visors, cloth masks, kit bags and headwear.
Sam Gorse, Head Teacher at Turton School, said:
“When we started production, our aim was to produce 500 visors for local use, however, we have more than tripled our production as demand increased.
“Yesterday's production saw 400 visors, 140 masks, 20 scrub hats being produced in a day.
“The PPE is being distributed to a wide range of people, including doctor’s surgeries, hospices, care homes, care workers and special schools.
“I’m so proud of our staff, who, as well as continuing to set work for students, are also giving up their time and using their talents to help our community.”
Bolton Central Library received the 3D printer as past of the GM Libraries Big Ideas Generator project and has previously been used at workshops and events to inspire new business start-ups.
We have really seen the Bolton community spirit at its best during these challenging times, and this is a perfect example of how everyone is pulling together.
Bolton Council leader Cllr David Greenhalgh, who is also ward councillor for the area and a governor at the school, said:
“We have really seen the Bolton community spirit at its best during these challenging times, and this is a perfect example of how everyone is pulling together.
“Our teachers are already doing a vital job by setting work and keeping in touch with students during lockdown. But to go above and beyond like this is something very special.
“This is a fantastic effort from everyone involved and I’m pleased the council has been able to help out by providing a 3D printer so they can do even more of this great work.”