New year... new updates

Each new academic year brings new pupils and new families into school, many of whom have never heard of 'Friends of Barnsley Christian School' and have little idea about what goes on behind the scenes in school. This post is an attempt to fill everyone in on the nuts and bolts of this group of willing workers.

'Friends of Barnsley Christian School' is the school's PTA - except we felt 'Parent Teacher Association' didn't really include all the grandparents, aunts, uncles, former pupils, former staff and friends of the above who are involved in the group, hence the name we chose. There's a small regular committee of volunteers who meet once or twice a term to plan events and fund-raising ideas. The Chair is currently Jayne Wagstaff (who works in school as a Teaching Assistant), Secretary and blogger is Julie Turner (French Teacher & Exams Officer) and the Treasurer is Julie Stead (looking after all the school's finances for us very capably!) Other members include staff members and parents of pupils in school.

We aim to raise funds to buy equipment that might be considered luxuries; we've also been involved in a number of building projects over the years, including the refurbishment of the Science Lab. and the Sports Hall (mammoth projects which took years and cost thousands of pounds, all raised by YOU!) Recently we've just bought some new PE mats as the conclusion to the Sports Hall project; this was kindly helped by a donation from Mr & Mrs Japp (parents of a Y6 pupil, to whom we are very grateful.)

Each year we hold a number of events, ranging from Bake 'n' Takes to talent shows, murder mystery plays, concerts and sponsored walks. We are involved in other things to raise money such as the Bag2School Recycling Day (bringing in unwanted clothes and bedding can raise money for school!) and the Beauty Evening (where having beauty treatments can raise money for school!) We are always open to new ideas and everyone is welcome to attend our planning meetings.

Speaking of which... the next Planning meeting is on Monday 7th November at 7.30 p.m. in school. Come along and find out more about this friendly group - part of our aims are to host social events which help people in school to get to know each other, so you'd be very welcome at one of these meetings.