Republic Bank gives school a fresh look

St. Ambrose Primary School is getting a facelift thanks to staff volunteers from Republic Bank.

Recently, Bank staff came together to paint the nursery and reception classes, freshening up the spaces.

Further painting and other remedial work are also scheduled for the plant and will continue on an ongoing basis.

Members of senior management were among the staff volunteers who came out in support of the initiative, including Managing Director and CEO, Anthony Clerk and Senior Manager, Retail Risk and Credit, Steven Jordan.

The staff volunteers were also joined by Republic Bank Ambassador, popular radio host and entertainer, Patrick “Salt” Bellamy, as well as Brand Advocate and popular rally car driver of the Blue Machine, Justin Campbell.

The Bank adopted the school a few years ago under its corporate social responsibility programme, the Power to Make a Difference and since then, has spearheaded a greening initiative to rehabilitate the play area and school grounds.

The principal, Jean Trotman, thanked the Bank for its continued support. She indicated that the students, as well as the teachers, are anticipating the return to the newly painted classrooms and attractive surroundings.

“Having not left the classroom that long ago, I know for myself the impact that a refreshed environment has on instruction and learning,” she said.

She added: “Having the assistance of the Bank has been invaluable because it has meant that many of the improvements that I want to see are being realised faster than they would be if I did not have their support. Sometimes they come in to attend to one need, but they see another in which their support is critical. They never overlook it. If they are unable to address it immediately, they will put it on their agenda for a future project.

“Our association results in better ambiance for all stakeholders. When school community members arrive at the compound and see our newly painted buildings and proceed to classrooms where the walls are refreshed by a new coat of paint, their motivation is greater. Republic Bank takes its corporate citizenship to another level.

“Consequently, it has been an amazing experience to work with them. In our relationship, their goals and mine are met to our great satisfaction. I look forward to our continued association.”

Manager, Marketing and Corporate Communications, Sophia Allsopp said the latest initiative was “truly a team effort”.

She added: “Mr. Joseph Callender, owner of Total Solutions, even joined us on the day. He shared his expertise with the team and ensured that we did a professional job. We are grateful to him as well as the management of ACE H&B Hardware for their help. One thing we continue to witness through our PMAD initiative is how willing people are, even in these challenging times, to support a worthy cause.” (PR)