In writing for this Report, milestones spring unprompted to mind. I refer not only to the Millennium, significant though that is, but also to the successful completion of the Netherhall 2000 project, the thirtieth birthday of the Netherhall House Trust, and the fiftieth anniversary of the opening of Netherhall House in 1952.

Facilitating Academic Work

As well as providing residential accommodation for students, which could be labelled 'student welfare', NEA has always pursued an active interest in the academic work of the residents of its centres. It has sought to provide suitable conditions for them to work successfully, such as a study room and library in each centre, computer rooms with email internet access, and opportunities for them to talk about their work with others.

Wickenden Manor

The capacity of Wickenden Manor was increased by refurbishing the Lodge and making it possible for group activities to be held in the Lodge independently of the Manor. This has already helped to reduce congestion in bookings at the busier times of year, and will certainly be a great boon until the next big expansion of Wickenden takes place.

Outreach projects

A group of residents at Netherhall House has been involved in running a project called Epicentre in Brixton, south London. The project aims to help schoolboys improve in their studies. Each boy is allocated a personal tutor to help him each week.

Improvements to centres

Apart from the usual programme of maintenance which goes on in the centres, major building works have been carried out at Orme Court and Kelston and we refurbished  the Lodge at Wickenden Manor and the lounge at Netherhall House. The works at Orme Court have upgraded numbers 4 to 8 and improved the use of space.