Welcome to Ox Close Friends
Why do we have a PTA?
We are fortunate at our school to have a PTA that is and has been an integral part of the school community for many years. In its time the PTA 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.
Our PTA is about much more than simply fundraising. The PTA exists to provide closer links between home and school and it is an excellent way to bring staff, parents 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 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 Ox Close Friends when their child joins our school. .
The PTA is extremely conscious of the ethos and diversity of our school, and we try very hard when organising and planning events to respect this. Not all of our events are run as fundraisers. For example, the PTA attend the annual leaver’s assembly and donate leaver’s hoodies to the year 6 children moving onto secondary school.
How to get involved
Below you will find out how parents, carers and other family members support the school through their fundraising activities. .
We have regular events such as the Halloween Disco, Easter Fun Night and Smarties Challenge, but also meet once a term to discuss planning of events, additional events, finances and fundraising ideas. The events we currently have planned for 2018-2019 are:
- Halloween Disco – 31 October 2018
- Kids handmade edibles to be sold at the Christmas productions – 12, 13, 18 & 19 December
- Masquerade disco – 13 February 2019
- Smarties Challenge – 5 April 2019
- Family Quiz – Saturday 18 May 2019 @ 6.30pm
- Summer Fayre – 29 June 2019
As a parent/guardian/carer you are automatically a member of Ox Close Friends and are welcome at every meeting. We are always looking for new ideas and suggestions for fundraising. If any events, activities or fundraising ideas are of interest to you and your children or you would like to attend our meetings, please email us on oxclosefriends@gmail.com and let us know, and we will consider your suggestions.
Not only does the fundraising provide lots of fun, but the money we raise enhances the education and experience of all the children in our school. We can only continue to do this with your support!
In the past we have supported cultural activities for the children and part funded a whole school visit to Beamish Museum. We have also contributed to the cost of travel for class trips. We are looking to buy the school a PA system, which I am sure will benefit the school during performances. All of these things enhance the school environment greatly.
In the academic year 2016/17 the Friends raised a fantastic £3,816.99. For the school we purchased:
- Year 6 leaver hoodies – £488.70
- Christmas selection box – £286.00
- Cameras for Reception – £95.00
The Friends promote a lively, active and fun atmosphere and would welcome any new faces to join us. If you are new to the area or to the school it is a great way to meet people and make friends. Even if you are busy and only have an hour to spare, this time will be much appreciated.
Thank you all once again for your support and donations over the last year. Please do get in touch oxclosefriends@gmail.com. Without your help and support our fundraising would not be possible.
With very best wishes, your PTA committee,
Lesley Thompson, Lynn Gibson, Viki Clarke, Donna Gowland & Emma Cockburn
Further information – OCF Handbook
The booklet below has been compiled by Ox Close Friends especially for you, as a new family joining our school community. We realise it can be strange and a little nerve-wracking starting at a new school and there always seems to be so many questions to ask. This booklet aims to provide you with information about our Parent Teacher Association which forms a major part of school life. If you have any questions that remain unanswered, please contact one of the committee members
Ox Close Friends – Welcome Booklet
Newsletters from Friends
Feedback Form
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