St. Ninian’s High School is delighted to share the completion of the redevelopment of our school gym, a project made possible through the generous support of local partners and members of our wider community.
A special thank you goes to Elite Fitness in Douglas, whose generosity, expertise and time played a vital role in transforming the space into a modern, inspiring fitness facility for our students and staff. Their support has helped create an environment that encourages positive habits in health and wellbeing, both during school life and beyond.
The gym was originally established in memory of former PE teacher Rob Campbell, who sadly passed away in 2015. Rob was a much-loved and highly respected member of the St. Ninian’s community, remembered for his passion for sport, his care for students and his enthusiasm for physical education. The gym continues to carry his name and spirit, reflecting the values of effort, teamwork and positivity that characterised his contribution to the school.
Over the summer and throughout the past term, significant work took place to upgrade the facility. This included the installation of new equipment, improved flooring, and a brighter, more welcoming design. Elite Fitness were instrumental throughout this process, donating and sourcing equipment and décor, offering expert guidance, and giving up considerable time to help bring the project together.
The gym is now open to Upper School students and staff, both after school and during selected lunchtimes, providing valuable opportunities to support physical health, wellbeing and positive routines beyond timetabled PE lessons.
Recently, Headteacher Chris Coole and Head of Physical Education Dom Winrow met with Kevin Furlong and Stefan White from Elite Fitness to view the finished gym together and formally express the school’s thanks for their outstanding support.
The school would also like to extend sincere thanks to Gary Cawtherley, whose expertise and practical support were invaluable throughout the redevelopment. Gary gave up significant time to help build equipment, maintain existing machinery and fit newly purchased items. In addition, we are very grateful to the Isle of Man Institute of Sport for their kind donation of equipment, which has further enhanced the facility.
This redevelopment is a fantastic example of what can be achieved when schools, local businesses and individuals work together. The gym stands as both a tribute to Rob Campbell’s legacy and a positive, inclusive space that will benefit generations of St. Ninian’s students for years to come.
