What is Friends of Benthal?  

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. Childcare is usually provided to help more people to come along. Look for letters or posters advertising them. 

Click here for the latest Friends of Benthal newsletter (January 2012)

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 valuable 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 held quiz nights which have proved to be a lot of fun. We are always open to new ideas, and are happy to try new events, we have held a bingo night, and most recently a family film afternoon which was really popular. For notice of all these events we usually send a letter home with your child and put posters up around the school, keep an eye on this website too for information.

Forthcoming events:

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. Among other things, we have contributed to the new PE 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 that I have to come to meetings?

Not at all. You can bake some cakes now and then. Or help sell juice and crisps or take admission money at the discos. Or help run one of the stalls at the summer and winter fairs. Offers of any talent are always very welcome, whether it is face painting for the fairs, poster design, or the ability to persuade companies to donate prizes for the raffle. We are always looking for new volunteers and new ideas, any contribution is a bonus. If you would like to say something at the meeting but can't make it, just get in touch, by phone, e-mail or chatting at the school gate- there's usually someone about. 

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 school, but the more people who can help the better. If you are interested we do have a e-mail list that, combined with the newsletter and occasional letters and posters, will keep you informed about activities. To join the group, e-mail friends-of-benthal@googlegroups.com

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.

Gill Macaskill: gmacaskill@googlemail.com or 07946 708511

Kym Robinson: kymrobinson1@fsmail.net

Margaret Gordon: margwork@hotmail.com