International Plywood has offered its support to a school in South Wales, providing a substantial amount of timber, plywood and panel products for the school’s development.
Heolddu Comprehensive School, based in Bargoed, was facing a severe shortage of funding and materials, putting the provision of crucial training courses for students at risk. With more than 40% of the children in the school receiving school dinners, the lack of resources had become a significant obstacle to their education and future prospects.
Francesca Probert, a teacher and Head of Year at the school, reached out to her father Wayne Probert, Sales and Development Director of Ante-Holz and Chair of the Western Timber Trade Association (WTTA), for support.
In response, Wayne asked the timber industry for assistance, to see if they could supply timber products free of charge to help keep the vocational courses running. Ian Attwood, Managing Director of International Plywood, and his team were quick to lend their support.
Wayne said: “We are so honoured to be supported by Ian and his team. It’s not every day that you see such a strong commitment to a worthwhile cause and International Plywood’s support will make a real difference to the lives of these young students.”
The materials were collected by the school’s technician, Paul Baker, whose efforts have been instrumental in delivering opportunities that far exceed the scope of his position, further demonstrating the dedication of the Heolddu school team to their students’ success.
A special event was held on 9 April to thank those businesses who have supported the design department with tools, equipment, materials and funding throughout the school year, which includes International Plywood, as well as Coleg Gwent, Ante-Holz, Joyner Group, and John SISK and Son. Attendees were able to meet students and staff, and see the incredible works produced using their kind donations.
Wayne is passionate about the future of the timber industry, and shared his personal commitment to supporting educational initiatives, saying: “It’s a passion of mine to use my connections within the industry to support the use of panel and timber products in schools and colleges. Educating children about the benefits of the industry is vital, and if we can help steer them toward full-time employment within the sector, that’s a huge win for both the students and the industry.”
This collaboration between Heolddu Comprehensive School, International Plywood, and the Probert family highlights the importance of establishing similar partnerships between education and industry. With the support of businesses like International Plywood, schools such as Heolddu can continue to provide valuable, hands-on training for students, equipping them with the skills and knowledge needed to pursue successful careers in carpentry, construction, and the broader timber industry.
As Francesca continues her work as a dedicated educator, she, along with Wayne and the generous support of companies like International Plywood, is helping to ensure that young students in South Wales have access to the resources they need to succeed and build a future in an ever-growing and vital industry.
