A leading independent construction company helped to spread Christmas cheer across a secondary academy in Hemsworth.

Construction company, Willmott Dixon took the extraordinary step of donating Christmas Dinner boxes to the families of some students from Outwood Academy Hemsworth. In addition, one student and their family, who wish to remain anonymous, also received a brand new oven for Christmas from Willmott Dixon.

The construction company is currently working on the exciting development at the Wakefield-Road based academy. 

The development includes a new teaching block, which will contain 17 new classrooms, as well as music and drama rooms, art rooms, a main hall and a dining room.

Toby Rutter, Principal at Outwood Academy Hemsworth, said:

“We are very grateful to Willmott Dixon for their exceptionally generous donations to our academy community.

“At Outwood, we believe in playing a key role in the community and we are proud to be working with an organisation like Willmott Dixon who hold this similar belief.

“2020 was a difficult year for everyone, but some families have suffered more than others. Thanks to the donation from Willmott Dixon, members of our community were able to enjoy a Merry Christmas.”

The Christmas Dinner boxes were delivered contactlessly to the families before Christmas Day and contained all the ingredients needed for a Christmas Dinner for four to six people.

This initiative forms part of Willmott Dixon's overall purpose, which is to deliver brilliant buildings, transform lives, strengthen communities and enhance the environment so the world is fit for future generations.

Anthony Dillon, managing director for Willmott Dixon in the North, said: “Alongside Outwood Academy, we share a commitment to leaving a positive lasting legacy in our communities, so, we’re very proud to be able to make a small difference this Christmas. Thank you to all the team, Outwood Academy and our supply chain partners for making this possible.”