In October 2024, the Cornwallis East Kent Freemasons Charity (CEKFC), working alongside Pentalpha Lodge No. 8535, proudly supported the Friends of Five Acre Wood School with a generous grant that is already having a remarkable impact on the lives of local children.

Five Acre Wood School, based in Maidstone, Kent, is an outstanding day special school serving over 800 pupils aged 4-19 with profound, severe and complex learning difficulties — including autistic spectrum disorder and multiple learning needs. The school is widely recognised for its tailored and dynamic approaches to special education, creating environments that nurture confidence, wellbeing and individual potential.

 

 

The grant was specifically allocated to an exciting and innovative project: converting part of a real airliner fuselage into a fully functioning classroom space. This imaginative transformation has literally brought a new dimension to the school’s creative learning environment, offering pupils a unique space that inspires curiosity and engagement. The addition of this striking aviation-themed classroom has been described by staff and families as a “wow” moment that adds immeasurable value to the school’s educational landscape.

This special learning space isn’t just about novelty — it supports the school’s mission to provide stimulating, personalised and meaningful learning experiences for all pupils. By expanding the variety of environments in which students can learn, explore and grow, the project enhances Five Acre Wood’s commitment to meeting the diverse needs of its school community.

 

 

 

The CEKFC and Pentalpha Lodge are delighted to see the tangible impact of their support and proud to contribute to a project that will benefit generations of young learners. The Freemasons’ ongoing partnership with local charities, schools and community groups remains a cornerstone of their commitment to building stronger, more inclusive communities across East Kent.