St. Richard’s Early Childhood Education Centre Expanded

The St. Richard’s Early Childhood Education Centre in Kingston has been expanded at a cost of $13.2 million provided by the Culture, Health, Arts, Sport and Education (CHASE) Fund.

Play equipment was also purchased for the young students.

The two new classrooms and bathroom were dedicated at a ceremony held on March 9.

In his address, Minister of Education, Youth and Information, Senator the Hon. Ruel Reid, commended the school Board and other stakeholders for their effort in catering to the learning needs of the students.

“St. Richard’s Early Childhood Centre has had an impressive record of partnerships and should be improved upon and certainly borrowed by more institutions of learning. It is a model of cooperation by the Ministry, CHASE Fund, its Parent-Teachers’ Association (PTA), staff and the school Board,” he noted.

Meanwhile, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the CHASE Fund, W. ‘Billy’ Heaven, noted that the Fund, which has donated some $37.4 million since 2005 towards the development of the St.

Richard’s Basic School, remains committed to the development of the early-childhood education sector.

“We at CHASE view early-childhood education as an investment… . It allows for better citizens, workforce and less crime in the society,” he said.

He pointed out that the school’s new facilities will contribute to certification requirements of the Early Childhood Commission (ECC). The school is poised to receive full certification this August.

Article by: Rochelle Williams
Photo from: www.jis.gov.jm