At Wilson’s, we are fortunate to have a particularly active and committed Parents’ and Friends’ Association, who give so much time and effort to raising money for our school community. We are delighted to announce that the PFA has recently donated £67,000 to the school! In testing economic conditions, this fundraising feat required even more commitment than is usual, so we must all offer a wholehearted “thank you” to the devoted and tireless members of the PFA.

Many of our readers will know that investment in digital technology has been an important part of our school development strategy in recent years and will continue to be at the forefront of our school expenditure over the coming years, as we transform our infrastructure ready for the challenges and opportunities of the digital age. The money raised by the PFA will enable us to further develop our digital provision for the benefit of pupils in all year groups. Pupils will have noticed brand new SMART boards in the Science department this term; the money raised by the PFA will enable us to accelerate this roll out across the rest of the school.

Members of the PFA give up their time on a voluntary basis to organise a very wide range of events, which raise money for the school as well as cementing the links between members of our school community. Friday bake sales are very popular with pupils (and staff!) and, of course, anyone who attends a school play or concert will have seen the PFA refreshment stands in the foyer.

Social sports tournaments, such as last term’s family badminton event, give parents and pupils the opportunity to spend time together as well as raising funds for the school. The PFA even organises a social walking group for parents, near to the school in Mellows Park, and last year arranged a summer social for parents in the school grounds. So you can come along, meet fellow parents and raise money for the school all at the same time!

We must also acknowledge the individual efforts of PFA members who raise huge sums of money for the school through sponsorship, such as Deepak, who has taken on the Herculean feat of running the London marathon for the school—more than once!

The PFA have great plans for 2024, including a table tennis tournament, swimathon, charity walk and chess events. You can find out more about the PFA at their website and can also follow their Instagram account.