The Friends of Chilton Foliat School are a group of parents who organise a wide range of fundraising and social activities for the school. Everyone is welcome to get involved with the Friends and working parents can get involved even if they can't attend meetings. Time is precious and there is always room for people to get involved just for a few hours now and again or in more regular ways if time permits.
“Money raised by the Friends really does make a difference and helps to enhance the children's experience at school”, confirms Mrs Blackwell, Chilton Foliat's Headteacher. Examples include facilities in the grounds, such as new play surfaces, an outdoor classroom and play equipment, and ice cream for the children during their trip to The Watermill Theatre Currently the Friends are working hard to raise money to pay for new equipment including an Orienteering Trail a new kitchen.
Events organised by the Friends include:
The Gourmet Gamble – an auction of cakes and suppers made (or bought!) by the parents
Popcorn Club – an after school cinema club.
School Discos – the children can dance to the latest hits in a disco run by parents.
The Christmas Bazaar – a terrific event with stalls selling a variety of treats and an opportunity for the children to demonstrate their artistic and entrepreneurial skills, even Father Christmas attended!
Christmas Secrets Room – where the children can choose presents for their nearest and dearest.
Summer School Fete - the biggest event of the year, which involves parents, pupils, staff and the villagers working hand-in-hand to raise money and create a wonderful afternoon out. The fete includes all the traditional elements, a brass band, plant stalls and cream teas and a variety of stalls from penalty shoot outs, to plate smashing! The older children run their own stalls to give them an opportunity to raise money for the school themselves as well as having fun with their friends and family.
Whatever the event, the Friends' goal is not just to raise money for the school but also to stage events that are enjoyable for pupils, friends and family alike.
