We are a group of parents and teachers who meet regularly throughout the school year to support the school, organise events and raise funds to pay for those extras which truly enhance our children’s education. We are members of the Parent Teacher Association (PTA) and a Registered Charity.
Last year we raised money in a range of ways across the year. Our biggest fundraising event was ‘Whitestock’ which is our very own Whiteshill music festival, held in the summer term. Last year we raised thousands of pounds for the school with this event alone and it was a wonderful day in the sunshine too! Throughout the year we also hold events for the children to enjoy. One of the highlights is our school disco which is free for all the children to attend and includes a hotdog and candyfloss too! The children love enjoying the music together and spending time with their friends in this way. Also, at Christmas, the Friends of Whiteshill organise for Santa to attend our Christmas Fayre so that all the children can visit him in his grotto at school.
Last year, we were very proud to finish off our playground improvement project. This included the installation of a climbing wall, stopwatch and artificial grass seating area for the children to use at lunch and breaktime. We also put in beautifully painted huts for the children to sit in and get some shade and repainted all the markings. Pride of place in the playground is also our fantastic mural which was painted by local artist Stephanie Cole.
Last year’s funds will be used to develop the rest of the outdoor space at Whiteshill, giving the children even more choice of how to spend their lunch and breaktime and also providing areas for outdoor learning throughout the school day.
Yes! Whether you are a new parent or someone whose children have been coming to the school for years, you are very welcome to join us. As a parent or carer of a child at school you are automatically a member of the Friends but if you want to help, have your say on how funds should be spent of have ideas for new events, please come along to the committee meetings which are held approximately once each half-term and advertised through the school newsletter.
