A headteacher says fundraising is crucial in the current education climate which means tight budgets for small schools.
Sarah Hilling, head of Hurst’s village school, St Nicholas Primary, made the comment as she thanked Hurst Show for its donations.
St Nicholas has recently updated its adventure playground. This was thanks to a generous donation from the 2022 Hurst Show along with other fundraising and ‘unwavering support’ from the PTA.
Mrs Hilling said: “Seeing the sheer delight on our children’s faces as they explored this new play equipment was a testament to the impact of community collaboration.”
She added: “Hurst Show has established itself as the highlight of our summer term. Beyond the event, Hurst Show has become a vital contributor to the growth and development of our village school…
“Fundraising is crucial in the current education climate with tight budgets for small schools.
“It provides essential resources, supports extracurricular activities, and ensures a well-rounded education despite financial constraints, fostering a nurturing environment for our children to thrive.
“This ongoing partnership with Hurst Show illustrates the power of community spirit.”
She thanked families attending the show, the show committee, and the school’s dedicated staff and PTA for their work for the event.
Thanks to a donation from the 2023 show the school is planning a new project to “further enhance the children’s educational experience,” she said.
The show weekend, which attracts thousands from a wide area, this year raised over £15,000 for good causes including the school, Hurst Scouts, St Nicholas Pre-School and Alexander Devine Children’s Hospice Service.
This year, in addition to making donations, the show is offering £250 grants. Vikki Randles, from the event’s marketing team, said: “A number of £250 grants are available to support local community initiatives.
“We’re conscious that we don’t necessarily know about everything going on. Someone may have a project they’d like help with.” Anyone interested can email their project’s details to [email protected] by March 1, 2024.
“We were very pleased with the total raised this year. It was particularly hot but people still came along,” added Vikki.
The Alexander Devine Hospice charity told the show team: “Without people like you, we simply could not run the much needed service in the community for children and their families.”
