Local residents and pupils came together to celebrate the re-opening of the Kenmont primary school’s annexe on Friday (26 April).
The disused annexe was restored to the community by parents, staff and volunteers with financial support from Hammersmith & Fulham Council and the HS2 project.
Residents and partners celebrated at the annexe and were treated to original poem readings and a community-themed song by Kenmont pupils.
Cllr Wesley Harcourt, H&F Cabinet Member for Climate Change and Ecology, cut the ribbon at the ceremony. He said:
The refurbished annexe is a win for the entire community. Thanks to the hard work from the school, parents, residents and the council we can all enjoy this fantastic new space.”
Open to all
Located in the north of the borough near Brent, the community annexe is home to a popular acapella choir, yoga, coffee mornings, meditation, children’s dance classes, boxercise and more. Visit their website for the full activity schedule.
The community hub also hosts classes and events open to anyone whether you're looking to get fit, pursue a hobby or just meet new people.
Local resident Patricia said: “I feel really lucky to have these classes within walking distance of my home. The instructors are excellent, and it’s so nice to meet some of my neighbours.”
Stacey Charles, who attended Kenmont primary in the 90s and still lives locally, explained: “I remember playing in the annexe as a little girl with my twin sister and friends. It's lovely to see how the space has been revived.”
Penny, who regularly attends the meditation class, said: “Having used the annexe as a child it’s great to now be able to use it as an adult.”
Bringing the community together
Nazia Chishty, chair of the PTA at Kenmont Primary, said: “It's been a real labour of love getting this annexe up and running and to see so many people coming together and benefiting from it has been really wonderful.”
While David Collins, Executive Head of Kenmont, said: “We are thrilled that the annexe is officially open. We have had a successful term of activities and events and are pleased that the local community has been benefitting from the sessions on offer.”
There are plans to continue to improve the annexe as well as overhaul the school’s garden. If you’d like to support, visit their GoFundMe page.
