Schools in Dorset are manufacturing protective equipment for frontline workers.
Schools have been responding to the crisis by making face masks and other personal protective equipment (PPE) to help the NHS and other workers avoid infection.
Many schools have also donated their own supplies of goggles and face shields, usually used in science and technology lessons, to local hospitals.
A total of 210 masks were made in one day at Lytchett Minister School, according to Headteacher Andrew Mead. He said: “Our Design and Technology departments are using their laser cutters to produce visors that cover the whole face. I am very proud that we have been able to do this to help our local health workers and care homes.”
Other schools responding include Blandford School, which has also been manufacturing face shields and masks. Sally Wilson, Headteacher, said: “We are responding to the urgent need for PPE equipment by going into production for the local community. Our production team, led by Dave Luxon, our Head of Design Technology, are using their talents and our state-of-the-art equipment to produce equipment.
“I’d like to say a huge thank you to everyone who has generously offered time, machinery, resources, financial support and delivery services to help us get this vital equipment to those who need it. It is amazing to see how everyone is pulling together, across the community, to support those caring for us.”
Bryanston School and local company, From Dorset With Love, were among those to respond to Mr Luxton’s appeal for materials, giving polypropylene sheets and acetate sheets for face shields.
Mrs Wilson added: “Our appeal highlighted not only how generous the people of Blandford are, but also how much need there is for personal protective equipment. We have had requests from Blandford Hospital, East Dorset District Nurses, Bovington Health Clinic, nurse prescribers working in Weymouth and Gillingham as well as other local businesses and care homes.
“So far we have had more than 120 requests for face shields, so we will continue to manufacture them for as long as we can.”
Thomas Hardye School in Dorchester have also been producing equipment. Headteacher Mike Foley, said: “I am proud that we are have been able to help Dorset health workers and other frontline staff limit their risk of infection by making personal protective equipment. Thanks to everyone involved and also to Swift Signs of Weymouth and the Institute of Mechanical Engineers for their donations.”
Cllr Andrew Parry, Dorset Council Portfolio Holder for Children, Education and Early Help, said: “I’d like to thank Dorset Schools for doing their bit to help our community get through these difficult times – it is very heart warming. We will get through this together.”
For more details of the incredible community response unfolding in Dorset, search social media for #DorsetTogether
