Poole’s beloved community centre

For so long now, our communities have missed the buzz of interaction whilst social distancing measures have been in place. One hub of local activity that has been sorely missed is the Branksome Centre in Poole, which is also home to our wonderful Sandbanks Road community.  

The Branksome Community Centre, operated by the Pool Communities Trust, is a vibrant hub in North-East Poole. They provide affordable activities for all ages and abilities and have become a great spot for locals to meet up with friends, family and to make new connections with those that they share the neighbourhood with.  

Following the initial lockdowns, the Branksome Centre was able to reopen for the benefit of locals following a generous grant from the Community Fund of the National Lottery and the kindness of local donors. The health and safety of all customers, hirers, volunteers and staff at the community centre have had to be taken into careful consideration upon re-opening.  

Supporting communities through lockdown 

Throughout the various lockdowns of the past year the Branksome Centre has remained a positive beacon of support for its local community. Whilst its doors had to remain shut, various online activities were hosted to keep those who needed it the most feeling less alone. For home-schooled children itching to get active again, the centre advertised free online Martial Arts classes with MKG Bournemouth and Poole. Whilst for the more active adults needing an escape, Yoga & Pilates with Daphnee offered online classes through the Centre’s Facebook group.  

Facilities on offer 

As well providing Poole locals with a large hall for activities, meeting rooms for hire and an outside sports court, the Branksome Community Centre also has its own community coffee shop serving delicious freshly ground coffee, tea, cold drinks, homemade cake, snacks and ice cream. To view all of their available options, download their menu from the website. Make sure to pop in on your next stroll around Poole to grab a takeaway coffee and tasty treat! 

All of the Centre’s spaces are available to hire for children’s birthday parties, sports activities and hobby group meetings.  

Events and activities 

Now that restrictions are beginning to ease, the Branksome Centre has been able to open its doors once again to some of its most popular activity groups and classes. The most in-demand being  

Artisan Theatre School, hosting performing arts classes for children and Baby Theatre of imaginative sensory story telling sessions..  

Another highly popular class is led by Jodie, a fitness instructor and personal trainer who hosts classes for all abilities and ages. Her classes are fun, upbeat and ensure that they are accessible for all. If you are in the local Poole area and have been keen to start a new form of exercise, take a look at the classes she has on offer at the Branksome Centre.  

Artisan Centre 

The Branksome Community Centre also proudly hosts the Artisan Studio, a community interest company which provides a wide range of interesting, high quality courses in arts, crafts and textiles. This space has been carefully worked on over the lockdowns to create an inspiring and welcoming place for local artists’ work to be displayed. Throughout the week a range of arts classes and groups are encouraged to meet and create together. Whether you are interested in print work, photography or even willow work and Chinese brush painting, there is a class for everyone. Simply visit their website to see what’s on offer.  

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If you are looking to join a lively and supportive community whilst being close to the idyllic south coast, then consider joining our Sandbanks Road community in Poole. To find out more, call the team on 01202 618 564 or email [email protected].