News
Enrich, ILT’s one day school, is set to move its programme to the iconic Elmwood Gardens building.
With 200 students enrolled for 2022, the largest intake to date, Enrich centre manager Peter Forde is looking forward to starting the year in the new facility.
“This shift will allow us to build on our new curriculum development underpinned by the Whare Tapa Wha model focussing on the Hauora (health and wellbeing) of our students,’’ he said.
“The grounds at the Elmwood will complement this providing the opportunity to expand on our Hydroponic growing using raised garden beds.
“The larger kitchen space will greatly improve our ability to experiment with preparing a variety of home grown produce.’’
ILT chair Alan Dennis said the board are delighted to continue to support the growth and development of Invercargill’s gifted young people.
“The programme at Enrich has been going from strength to strength. The move to Elmwood will ensure they have a space that is fit for purpose where these talented students can continue to thrive,’’ said Dennis.
It’s expected the school will commence their academic year next month, once necessary modifications to the building have been completed.
Elmwood’s current tenant Koha Kai will shift operations to a new location that’s under development. Koha Kai founder Janice Lee values the strong relationship between the two community minded organisations.
“Elmwood has been a wonderful home to us over the last two years and we’re very grateful for ILT’s ongoing support. We’re looking forward to setting up at our new location that caters to all our current needs but also offers scope for future development,’’ Lee said.
ILT will supply equipment to assist Koha Kai to establish its new kitchen.
Alan Dennis ILT’s chair viewed the ongoing collaborative partnership as extremely positive.
“We’re humbled to continue to support Koha Kai, who play such a vital role in our community, offering vocational training and employment opportunities for people with disabilities, ‘’ he said.
Enrich’s previous premises on Don Street will remain vacant for the foreseeable future.
ILT chief executive Chris Ramsay said, “whilst there are no immediate plans for the premises, we’ve always viewed Don Street as a key part of our strategic plan in helping add to the vibrancy of the inner city.’’
“It’s the ideal time for us to assess the opportunity for development, especially with The Langlands build due to be completed in the coming months,’’ said Mr Ramsay.