STUDENTS at Boscobel Primary in St Mary now have a new computer lab and an upgraded bathroom courtesy of Sandals Foundation, which officially handed over the facility to the school earlier this month.

The school received 12 new computers, chairs, and a resource area which will help in the development of more than 250 students at the rural institution.

Director of Programme for Sandals Foundation Heidi Clarke said the organisation was pleased to be able to continue giving back to the school which is in close proximity to Beaches Ocho Rios resort in Boscobel.

“Education is the only area that underpins all we do as it will allow persons to stand on their own two feet,” Clarke said.

She pointed out that the aim of the foundation is to provide schools in the Caribbean with similar opportunities available to students in other parts of the world.

General Manager of Beaches Ocho Rios Brian Roper said Sandals Foundation was involved in assisting more than 50 schools in the Caribbean.

The recent trip to Boscobel Primary was a regular one from the hotel staff, as guests visit the school on Thursdays to read with the children.

Principal Perlita Trail said the school was grateful for the partnership with Sandals Foundation as it allows students to have equal opportunities at excelling. She pointed out that Sandals Foundation has been catering to students through medical and dental care, mentorship programmes and infrastructural development.

“We are tremendously grateful… the Sandals Foundation is the wind beneath our wings,” she said, adding, “The foundation is ensuring that we do not teach today’s children as we did yesterday.”

Trail said the school will remember all that Sandals Foundation has done many years to come.

“The institution is very appreciative; we cherish this enterprise… the foundation has left an indelible mark of love in our hearts,” Trail said.