We are fortunate at our school to have a PTA that is an integral part of the school community. In its time Fitz Friends has raised thousands of pounds, which has been spent on equipment and resources to enhance our children’s education experience and the school’s facilities. Just some of the things that Fitz Friends have purchased solely or contributed to in recent years include the refurbishment of the school library, ICT equipment, subsidising class trips and workshops and buying new playground and sports equipment 

Fitz Friends is however about much more than simply fundraising.  Our PTA exists to provide closer links between home and school and it is an excellent way to bring staff, parents, carers and friends together socially in support of the school, working towards a common goal.  It is fun too - just ask any of the Committee members or PTA helpers!  Obviously, as in any organisation, we have experienced some challenges but with the continued support of parents, carers and staff, our PTA has always succeeded in its efforts.

All parents and members of the school community are encouraged to get involved, even if they only have a small amount of time available.

All families are automatically members of Fitz Friends PTA when their child joins our school. 

How We Raise Money

Like most PTAs, the majority of our funds are raised through a wide variety of fun and social events such as Discos, Fairs, Film Clubs, Jumble Sales and Quizzes, as well as Second Hand Uniform and Ice Cream Sales. Fitz Friends is extremely conscious of the ethos and diversity of our school, and we try very hard when organising and planning events to respect this. 

Donations from parents, carers and local residents and businesses are extremely important.  We have, over time, developed strong links with the local community and are always well supported by both residents and businesses, for which we are very grateful.  Many of our businesses and local shops are very generous providing donations for raffle prizes, auction items etc and some have taken part in our Christmas and summer fairs. 

We are also extremely grateful to the local businesses who have participated in charity matched giving schemes and donations.  This has made a huge difference to our fundraising efforts. 

How The Money We Raise Is Spent

Following a fundraising event, the money is banked straight away.  It is at our PTA Committee meetings, that the decisions on how to spend the money are agreed. We always endeavour to spend our funds in ways that will benefit all our children across all areas of the school and curriculum.  The money we raise is usually spent fairly quickly.  That way, you can be sure that in supporting our school, your child/ren will feel the benefit, along with everybody else.

Usually, our Head teacher will have a consultation with the children and staff to discuss items that the school would like the PTA to consider funding.  It could be anything from funding towards a large project in the future, buying resources to improve a particular area of the curriculum or school environment or funding school trips. The PTA funds are spent on the ‘extras’ that are not provided by the school’s budget, thus making our children’s learning experiences so much more fulfilling and exciting.

Some of the things that Fitz Friends have purchased solely or contributed to in recent years include:

• Refurbishment of the school library including books, fixtures and fittings
• ‘Poddely’ (giant kind of construction kit)
• 16 tablet computers with cases and a charging trolley
• Christmas trips
• Play equipment 
• Sports kit
• Outdoor classroom
• Polytunnel
• Whole school theatre trips
• Hall sound system
• Broadcast radio equipment
• Laptops
• Class parties/purchases
• Subsidising class trips
• Year 6 Leavers’ trips/souvenir memory books
• Gardening club and eco events