Rutherford School Appeal

Rutherford School is a very special, independent school for very special children. Located in Melville Avenue, it provides education for 24 of Croydon and Sutton's most profoundly disabled children aged between 2 and 12. No other school in the area can, or does, provide this level of support for children with such complex needs.

The school building, which has been used for over 40 years, no longer meets the increasing needs of the children and staff. For example, the existing three classrooms cannot accommodate essential ancillary facilities, such as separate-sex bathrooms, or the large, modern equipment required to help the children.

Following extensive consultation with parents, staff, the local community and planning authority, a new annexe to the school has been designed. Architect's drawings have been produced and planning permission granted. Enabling work has already been completed and we are using the bungalow next to the school as a temporary classroom.

The new annexe, which will be completed by summer 2007, will enable 30 profoundly disabled children to attend the school as well as providing greater accessibility and resources. The four new classrooms have been designed to include separate-sex bathrooms, hoists and storage for wheelchairs and other equipment. The annexe will also include three new 'quiet' rooms, a therapy room and a nurses room.

The cost of the new annexe will be £1.45 million. This is our current major fundraising appeal and we have already raised and received pledges of £550,000. However, we still need to raise a further £900,000. We would greatly value any support you could offer to make this project a real success.

How you can help
If would like to help us we have a link to 'Just Giving' where you can make a donation online or, if you would like any further information, then please contact us on 020 8686 4716.