A group of parents and carers who organise events for the kids and raise funds for the school. We try to meet about twice a term to plan events and talk over ideas. All parents and carers are welcome to come along. The meetings last for an hour or so and are a good way to get to know fellow parents. Look for letters or posters advertising them.

CHARITABLE STATUS?

Friends of Benthal have recently been awarded charitable status. This should open up new areas for us to try to raise funds, outside of our normal activities.

We are still finding our way with our new-found status, so if you have and expertise or knowledge in this area please get in touch. One thought is to raise money to buy lots of musical instruments. Steel pans, flutes, clarinets and cellos are very expensive but would make a vauluable contribution to the school.

WHAT KIND OF EVENTS DOES FRIENDS OF BENTHAL ORGANISE?

We organise a Summer and Winter fair. We hold discos twice a year, and cake sales each half term. We have also begun to hold quiz nights which have proved to be a lot of fun. For notice of all these events we either send a letter home with your child, or put posters up around the school.

Forthcoming events: International Day 21st March 2009
Summer Fair 27th June 2009

WHAT DOES THE SCHOOL DO WITH THE MONEY THAT FoB RAISE?

They buy things that would otherwise be difficult to pay from from the school's budget. Last year, for example, we raised £10,000 to put towards the new playground equipment.

This year we have contributed to the new P.E. equipment and the re-painting of games lines in the lower playground. We will also be buying equipment for some after school clubs - e.g. table tennis tables and hopefully some musical instruments.

DOES HELPING MEAN I HAVE TO COME TO MEETINGS?

Not at all. You can bake some cakes now and then. Or help sell juice/crisps or take admission money at the discos. Or help run one of the stalls at the summer and winter fairs. Or anything. We are always looking for new volunteers and new ideas.

BUT I'M REALLY BUSY WITH WORK AND FAMILY AND LOTS OF THINGS GOING ON AT HOME.

That's OK, and is true for all families using the schools. But the more people who can help the better. If you are interested we do have a email list that, combined with the newsletter and occasional letters and posters, will keep you informed about activities.

WHAT IF I CAN'T HELP OUT BUT HAVE SOMETHING I WANT TO SAY ABOUT THE SCHOOL OR FoB?

FoB are always open to input. Also, the school and the teachers are keen to hear the views of parents and carers, and FoB can pass on your thoughts to the school - there is usually a teacher or two at our meetings. But it’s generally best to make an appointment with your child’s teacher, or with the Headteacher. Alternatively, it may be more appropriate to contact the Parent Governors who have overall responsibility for the running of the school. The school offices can put you in contact with the Governors or see the Governors page on the web site.

HOW DO I GET IN TOUCH WITH FoB?

You can always leave a note at the school office with your contact details. E-mail or mobile is probably the best route.

John Carricker: teresao@blueyonder.co.uk or 07817 450729

Margaret Gordon: margwork@hotmail.com

Neena Rupani: neena.rupani@bt.com