Education minister Diallo Rabain has confirmed that the Ministry of Education authorised a public volunteer effort to ensure Bermuda’s public schools are ready for the new term in September.

The first of the “work rallies” took place at Warwick Preschool on Saturday when volunteers helped to clean bookshelves, cots, chairs and other equipment. Some landscaping work was also needed.

The effort follows an e-mail from group leader Angela Young, which was sent out to parents and volunteers who had voiced their willingness to offer a helping hand.

The group met with Mr Rabain and the Minister of Public Works Lieutenant-Colonel David Burch, who both welcomed their help. According to the e-mail, Warwick Preschool is the first of “30-plus that require assistance” and schedules are being prepared.

Mr Rabain said: “Recently, the Minister of Works and I met with a group of parents and volunteers who expressed their commitment to assist with getting schools ready for new school year.

“The group leader, Angela Young, has enthusiastically begun to organise volunteers to assist with work rallies.

“Our ministry teams have welcomed their support and willingness to join us in preparing schools. The volunteers will work with our ministry facilities team and school principals to arrange the work rallies.”

Ms Young’s e-mail claimed that help with landscaping work was needed as the Parks Department was “overwhelmed”.

The Parks Department was contacted for comment on the work rally but no response was received by press time.