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Christchurch Earthquake
Compared to some of the damage experienced in Saturday’s earthquake and subsequent aftershocks, some would say the Seventh Day Adventist School and Footsteps Preschool in Papanui got off relatively lightly. At a closer look, however, cracks have begun to appear. On visiting the site, staff members were already working to remove the learning centre’s hazardously balanced chimney. A quick survey of the building revealed further, possible structural damage including cracks to the foundations under the carpet inside. Although a preliminary assessment has deemed the structure safe to enter, a structural engineer’s inspection is yet to deliver the final word on whether the preschool’s learning centre for four year olds will have to be demolished and rebuilt.
Christchurch Earthquake
Seventh Day Adventist members and school staff have pulled together in recent days to ease the impact for those affected by the quake. School Principal, Danny Curasco, is no exception having taken two staff members into his own home since they were evacuated on Saturday. The school is also offering support to two families of current students who have also been displaced by the disaster. Discussion within the school has also emphasised the need to address potential psychological repercussions when the students feel ready, with staff preparing for the return of students once the buildings have been given the green light. This follows a deliberation period on what the best strategies will be to address the emotional implications for toddlers and students and how to best equip them with the knowledge and tools necessary to cope with future disasters.
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