The 3g Artificial Grass Pitch here at Kepier will re-open to the community at 6pm on Monday 15th October. Originally built in 2006, the pitch exceeded its projected lifespan thanks to a strenuous maintenance programme. However, this summer it was decided to relay the pitch in order to provide the best possible facility to local clubs and the community. The chosen contractors were SIS Pitches based in Maryport, Cumbria, who have extensive experience in the design, manufacture and installation of 3g AGP's across the world, and installed 6 of the 12 grass/artificial grass pitches at this summers World Cup in Russia. The 7 week programme of works began with the existing carpet and shockpad being lifted and removed. The base of the pitch was then renovated to bring it back up to the required standard, and once this was completed a new shockpad was laid. Following testing of these to ensure they met FA/RFU standards, the final part of the programme involved the laying of the carpet, which was then infilled with some 120 tonnes of sand and 100 tonnes of rubber crumb. Final testing was then carried out to ensure the pitch met FA/RFU standards in order to be placed on their registers for competitive games. The pitch looks fantastic, and provides a world class surface right here in Houghton-le-Spring. Many thanks to SIS Pitches for their great work and professionalism throughout the whole process. To enquire about bookings, please email our Community Development Manager, Dave Brennan: d.brennan@kepier.com

Kepier were delighted to welcome author Dan Smith and Janet Simm from Sunderland School Library Services to talk to some of our Reading Champions. Dan spoke to them about his work and where he finds the inspiration for his stories, which involve wonderful creatures such as Brazilian wandering spiders to free roaming tapirs!!! Our Reading Champions also received a signed copy of one of Dan's books, and everyone involved had a wonderful time!!! Pictured are Dan, Janet and Literacy Coordinator Miss Sood together with a few of our lucky learners!!!

On Friday 19th October, Kepier will be supporting this wonderful cause. Our Design and Technology Department will be selling a variety of pink food items and breast cancer awareness key rings and trolley tickets. All items will range in price between 50p - £1. These can be purchased by both staff and learners from the back of the hall at break time or in Classroom T1 at the start of the day. Let's see how much money we can raise!!!