Rasbert Turner, Gleaner Writer

Can you imagine sitting on the cold concrete or even kneeling to do your lesson? It is the reality of Britina Jackson of the Grade Six Achievement Test and Remedial Class in Spanish Town.

"I think that this class brings hope to many of us who would otherwise be idling. It gives a chance for us to make a vital contribution to society," Jackson told Arts & Education.

Her view was echoed by literacy specialist Nastassya Thomas, who added that the programme is indeed a success.

"There is a sense of joy to impart knowledge to these participants, some of whom are as young as five years old," Thomas said.

The Golden Police Youth Club saw it fit to empower persons in the community who had the desire to improve themselves academically.

"It is a pleasing thing for me to be given the chance to improve on English and mathematics," Marsha Chin said.

The St Catherine-based group have embarked on a project to educate the residents of Spanish Town.

"It is a programme which started in January this year. We decided to widen the social intervention through education and are pleased to have 40 participants in the programme," Special Corporal Fabian McKnight said.

He said that Coore's Texaco has offered their support with their donation of stationery and blackboards.

The group said there is a need for benches and tables and invite contributions from individuals or companies.

Math, English classes

"We have classes from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays, but we really need help to continue this work of educating the community," McKnight said.

During each session, persons are taught remedial mathematics and English.

While there are some which just need refreshers, the majority are being taught from scratch.

The group said so far Member of Parliament Denise Daley has donated a desktop computer, however, more support is required.

"We need benches, chairs, stationery and other basic furniture like cupboards and filing cabinets; we are just in need of help," Nicollette Edwards, a student, said.

The consensus is that while the train has stopped running from Spanish Town to Linstead, the station is being put to very good use.