High spirits fill the air at Handforth Grange Primary School as both staff and pupils celebrate the success of an extensive fundraising initiative.

The fundraising campaign to install a cutting-edge trim trail, has come to fruition following an astounding achievement of £13,000 raised by the Friends of Handforth Grange (FoHG).

Mrs. Booth, Head Teacher at Handforth Grange Primary School, initiated the proposal for a new trim trail installation at the school – a project that was spearheaded by the Friends of Handforth Grange (FoHG). After researching various options from different suppliers, Mrs. Booth presented the choices to parents during a school event, allowing them to vote on their preferred trim trail design.

In just over 18 months, the FoHG organised an array of entertaining events to raise funds, including a Wonka Style Golden Ticket Raffle, Music Festivals, Family Bingo Night, Themed days like Frozen Fridays, and fundraising endeavours such as a Board Games Cafe, Christmas Fair, and an Easter Egg Competition. Notably, the FoHG even arranged unique experiences like a school-based Circus before the summer break.

The new trim trail will be installed by Pentagon Play and opened to pupils in January 2024.

During the past 25 years, Pentagon Play have partnered with over 15,000 schools establishing safe yet effective outdoor play spaces where children can engage freely in active learning experiences. These playground spaces are created to support learning through play, in line with the Primary School Curriculum, in schools and nurseries throughout the nation.

Nina Melhuish-Broome, Chair of FoHG said: â€œWitnessing the children’s sheer joy and excitement during these events has been the most rewarding aspect of this project for the FoHG! 

The success of these events owes much to the tireless dedication of individuals including Janine Murphy, Matt Sleight, Caroline Davies, Liz Diamond, Katie Hibbert, Jess Hall, Krishna Padron, Clare Evans, Clare Read, Claire McKim, Katie Kendry and past active team members Vickie Camfield and Matt Greatorex who have all dedicated endless hours to ensure the events’ success.â€

The FoHG extends heartfelt gratitude to Mrs. Booth for her unwavering support to fundraising ideas. Moreover, FoHG express immense appreciation to the parent volunteers whose contributions have been invaluable in making these events possible. The overwhelming support from parents, carers, and community members has been pivotal in creating a strong and vibrant school community.

The FoHG acknowledges the invaluable support received from local businesses, notably Herds Bakery, Tesco and Anwyll Homes for their ongoing support.

Mrs Andrea Booth, Head Teacher commented: â€œThe installation of the trim trail stands as a testament to the collective efforts and unwavering spirit of the school community, fostering an environment where children can thrive both academically and through enriching outdoor activities!â€

For further information on how to support the FoHG, please contact the Chair of the Friends of Handforth Grange at: friendsofhandforthgrange@hotmail.com