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Working Together
Location: Cumbria
In October 1978 Mr Graham first publicised his wishes to set up a group for both school and community benefit. A letter sent to the parents outlined the intention to have representation from the village communities on a newly formed Community School Association. The main purpose of the Association was planned to organise events and raise funds for both the community and the school. After a positive response, nominations to the first committee were sought, and the formation of that first committee was completed on 31 January 1979. The CSA wasted no time in organising the first event. The first Spring Fair was held at the school on 23 March 1979. An Easter service in school was conducted by Canon Rex Chapman, and this was followed by the Spring Fair. A number of stalls were there for all to enjoy, and the event raised an impressive £137.34.
Each year from 1979, there was a good turnout and everyone enjoyed the stalls and activities that made the event a success. The profit gradually increased, virtually year on year. After ten years, the Spring Fair had become a more significant event now raising £750. A key part of the Spring Fair became the auction of goods. As the Spring Fair grew in popularity, an extensive list of people, companies and organisations were invited to make donations to the auction, which includes many high quality items. As the donations were received they were sorted for suitable use at the Spring Fair. The auction was introduced in 1996 and many of the better items were earmarked for the auction. As well as generating a large share of the profit for the Spring Fair, the auction also provides many families with some excellent bargains which they can enjoy. Top prizes have included Simon Bull paintings, a week’s holiday at Oasis, and others.
The ethos of the school includes a strong caring element, which includes the friendships within the school through to a spirit of taking opportunity to do things for others, when suitable opportunities arise.
Over the years there have been many special occasions that have had a focus on fund raising for others. Often this includes helping the children to get a better understanding of the needs of people locally, nationally or internationally.
The vicar of St Andrews Church, Dacre, has always had strong links with our Church of England school, helping with the spiritual leadership of the school. This has included frequent involvement in the school assemblies, often once a week. The school has participated in several church services over the years, including harvest thanksgivings and Christmas events, such as the Christingle service. Since 1998, Education Sunday has been held in February each year, and the school has usually contributed to these special services. The choir often sing one or two pieces, and school staff and children are involved in the readings. In February 2002, Mr Peter Shelton, Headteacher, gave the sermon, based on understanding how to read and how learn from what we read, including a challenge to read and learn more from the Bible.
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