The Parents’ Committee’s work is very much a joint venture, whereby the Headmaster in consultation with staff suggests which projects would really benefit the pupils. We then decide which ventures we would like to contribute towards. In general, these are things that would be a low financial priority to the school, but which, as I’m sure you’ll appreciate, add an enormous amount to the children’s enjoyment and education.

Our role is split into a few key areas:

Fundraising for the school – recent projects we have helped fund include the quiet garden, the amphitheatre, floodlighting for the netball courts and a baby grand piano for the Hall. At present we are raising money to redevelop Reception’s play area and a new sound system for the Hall.

Donating to local charities – 10% of everything we raise goes to local charities – usually ones that benefit children – and all the parents are asked to nominate a charity each year. Recent recipients have included Street Child Africa, and the Shooting Star Children’s Trust.

Social events – The Parents’ Committee provide the school’s social life by organising fun family events that can be enjoyed by all those connected with the school, whilst also raising money. The emphasis with these events is simply that they be as much fun as possible for children, parents, grandparents and extended families, and they include the Christmas and Summer Fairs, Fireworks Night, quiz nights, school discos, wine-tasting and pampering evenings and much, much more.

Providing a link between parents and the school – representatives of the Parents’ Committee meet Mr Malam and Mr Howell, Chairman of the School Governors, at the beginning of each term to discuss planned events as well as any general issues parents would like us to raise. Topics we’ve broached in the past have included road safety near the school, changes to the format of parents’ evenings and uniform. Recent changes that have arisen as a result of these meetings include the introduction of polo shirts in Reception and new uniform items.

One thing we can’t emphasize enough is that the Parents’ Committee is only as successful as the support it receives, whether that’s simply attending our events or joining the committee itself. However small or large a part you play, it really helps you and your family get as much as possible out of the school.