Half term week is seeing the first stage of  improvements to the decor of the Centre, which has had little redecoration carried out since its opening in 2007 (yes, six years old in March). Over the years equipment, furniture and books etc. have gradually built up, and for some time I have felt that the overall look should take steps to catch up. The reception area in particular  with its book-tables or mini-library has acquired an improvisatory character which now feels ‘unprofessional’.    The question has been how to make improving changes without  spending more money than is necessary.

I have put the challenge in the hands of Carol Arter of Arterworks (arterworks.co.uk). As a retired schoolteacher, she has a natural feel for comfortable working colours, and as a practical arts and  crafts person, a sense of what should  be prioritised and can be achieved with a modest budget. So over this week (and, if there is more left to do, at other convenient times later on), under her guidance, there will be some boxing in of inelegant features, the application of a new colour scheme and the appearance of new fixtures – shelves and cupboards mainly. There will probably be some rearrangement of furniture, and accessories will appear in Tuition Canterbury colours and imprinted with logo.