Deborah, a former teacher, has been a part of Duffy Books in Homes since the beginning and used to recruit new schools and funding partners and match them together. Deborah is now one of Duffy’s Funding Partners and sponsors Marewa School in Napier, which is where she started her primary schooling. She believes the Duffy Books in Homes programme is important because “reading is the cornerstone of education. I was a keen reader as a child and my children were too. Reading and books have enriched my life and allowed me access to education and learning. Reading can also be a refuge and comfort for children going through tough times.” 

 

 

Deborah recently donated a Learning Hut to the school, after seeing them at a charity auction. She says, “I loved playing huts when I was young and thought what child wouldn’t adore being in that cosy, safe space. So I decided to donate one to Marewa School.” The Learning Hut provides a refuge space for up to four students to gather and collaborate together, free from distraction. The Hut gets kids off the ground and has built in seating and a workstation. It also features an acoustic dampening roof. 

 

Chris Maynell, principal at Marewa School, says of the Learning Hut, “There was lots of excitement from the teachers when I mentioned that a Learning Hut was being donated. It’s been placed in our new entrant space. The children love the learning hut and are always in it.” 

 

Deborah says “Despite living in Auckland now I have enjoyed attending book assemblies and always receive a warm welcome. It helps me gain an understanding of some of the challenges they’re facing and how I might be able to assist using my contacts. The donation of the Learning Hut is the culmination of this and it was wonderful to hear it has been so well received.”