Hello! I’m Sarah, Ellie’s mum. Ellie is starting at the Pre-school in September and I’ve volunteered to take on this Fundraising Co-ordinator role, so this will be a new experience for both of us.
As you all know, the Pre-school is a charity. Fees cover basic overheads but fundraising activities pay for ‘extras’ such as new play equipment and refurbishing existing facilities. Fundraising activities not only enhance the children’s experience at pre-school but allow everyone to have some fun too.
Here are the different ways you can get involved and help support the Pre-school:
Support our Events
The first date for your diary is the Autumn Fair which will take place on 16th November at St Andrews Church Hall and is a lovely community event. More updates will follow about how you can offer support. If you have an idea for an event that you’d like to run, then do send me an email. Last year, the Pre-school Committee ran a Quiz Night and a Race Night but if you have another idea, then we’d love to hear from you.
Corporate Fundraising
Do you work for a company which has a Match Funding Scheme, such as Vodafone, Thames Water or Microsoft? If your organisation would be willing to use to this to boost our fundraising efforts, it would be much appreciated! Or maybe they could offer a raffle prize? Please do let me know.
Moving House
Bridges Estate Agent is a long-term supporter of the Pre-school and we really value their support. They are generously offering to donate 15% of their fee to
Pre-school for every house sold through parents, friends or relatives. So if you or anyone you know is selling, please ask Bridges for a referral. This donation could make a really big difference to us. Their website is http://www.bridgesproperty.co.uk/
Sponsored Events
Do you run or cycle? Perhaps you or someone you know could support us by doing a sponsored event such as a half marathon, bike ride or obstacle race. Get in touch and we’ll help you get an online fundraising page set up.
Shopping
A really easy and effective way to support us is by choosing to shop through http://www.easyfundraising.org.uk. All you have to do is head to the easyfundraising website, search for ‘St Andrews Preschool, Reading’ and then you will be asked to sign up for a free account. Then pick the retailer you want to shop at and start shopping. There are nearly 3000 retailers on board ready to make a donation, including Amazon, John Lewis. Argos, thetrainline and Sainsbury’s. Once you’ve checked out, that retailer will make a donation to our good cause for no extra cost whatsoever. You can download an app and/or set up a donation reminder, to remind you to shop through the website.
Also, if you’re planning on buying any of the following items, please consider using these websites as they will provide us with cashback too:
• Microscooters – go to www.micro-scooters.co.uk and use code 116825 in the ‘School Codes’ section at checkout
• Name labels – go to www.stickins.co.uk and use code 35624
That’s it for now. You can email me at fundraising@standrewspreschoolcaversham.onmicrosoft.com or chat to me at drop off. Any help you can offer, however big or small, will be much appreciated. Look forward to meeting you all.
Sarah Magor