It’s full steam ahead at Upshire Primary School!
We’re incredibly proud of the volunteer work Purdy has recently done to help transform a decommissioned train carriage into an inspiring new activity space for pupils at Upshire Primary Foundation School in Waltham Abbey.
This unique project presented some real challenges, from working in an active school environment to tackling the “quirky design” of converting a passenger train carriage (a first for our 25 year experienced Project Manager Dan Bevan!). We faced logistical hurdles around utilities and toilet positioning, but by working closely with our partners at Qualis Property Solutions, we were able to find creative and practical solutions together.
Huge thanks to our Social Value Co-ordinator, Fay Paddington, for leading our involvement, and to all the Purdy volunteers who donated their time. This project is a fantastic example of what can be achieved through true collaboration between organisations, including our valued partners Qualis, Travis Perkins, and local contractors.
The children’s excitement says it all – they’re looking forward to using their new space for art clubs, reading, choir practice, and as a calm learning environment. As one pupil said: “I feel appreciative for them doing it for us, and I feel honoured that they’re doing it for us.”
🎥 Watch the video to hear directly from our team, the children, and see this incredible transformation!







