Fundraising Updates
Parent’s Association Christmas Gift & Craft Fair
The Parents’ Association would like to say a thank you to everyone who came along and supported the fair on Sunday. We had 64 stalls with a vast variety of treats and gifts for sale. We would also like to say a big thank you to everyone who contributed prizes to the raffle including: Lord and Lady Lloyd Webber, Tesco, Castle Windows, Coat & Bear Pub, Amelia Rose Accessories, Sandford Springs Golf Course, Cotswold Wildlife Park, The Bowlers Arms, Imagine Photography, Camp Hopson, The Craven Arms, Bedlam – Paintballing, Newbury Racecourse and Razzamataz Theatre School.
A big congratulations to all our 25 raffle, winners with one lucky student scooping the £200 cash prize. The fair would not be possible without the volunteers and visitors, so thanks again for all of your support. I look forward to seeing you at a future PA meeting.
Matt Franklin-Wilson
St Bart’s PA Chair
Davis Cheques in with Swings and Smiles
Swings and Smiles is a small charity based in Thatcham that offers support, friendship and play to children with special needs and their families. Davis House have been raising money for the charity for a number of years now. On Wednesday, we welcomed Nicola from Swings and Smiles into Davis assembly to learn more about what the fundraising goes to and how much of an impact it can have. The assembly ended with Miss Suggitt, Amy (11D3) and Hermione (11D3) surprising Nicola with a cheque for £8,500! Miss Suggitt, Head of Davis House, said, “I cannot believe how much the students have raised over the last few years. The help that Swings and Smiles provides has a life-changing impact on local families and I feel so proud that we are able to support with that.”
Hector Shaves Head for Air Ambulance
Hector (11E1) has raised more than £2000 for the Air Ambulance through sponsorship when he had his long, rock band, locks shaved off. Hector was inspired by the work of the vital charity when they saved the 
life of his aunt after a serious health emergency. He says it “opened his eyes to the work they do.” He had it done at a local barbers and followed it up with a karaoke night to celebrate. Several of his friends showed their support but getting buzz cuts too! His hair has been donated to the Little Princess Trust which makes wigs for children receiving cancer treatment so he’s effectively supporting two charities at once. Wales Air Ambulance Charity’s regional fundraising manager Abi Pearce said: “We are hugely grateful for the money raised by Hector and the effort he has made to raise awareness about what we do.”
Everyone at St Bart’s is very proud of you Hector!
Harvey Scales Heights for Guide Dogs
In August, Patterson Charity Vice Captain, Harvey (11P2), climbed Ben Nevis, the highest mountain in the UK. After a long drive to Scotland and an overnight camp at the foot of Ben Nevis, he reached the summit, experiencing everything from sun, to rain, to snow on his way. In true Harvey style, he decided to raise money for Guide Dogs – an impressive £130. A fantastic achievement! Well done Harvey.
