Young pupils at a Devon primary school have combined festive fun with fundraising, generating crucial support for a life-saving local charity.
Santa Hats and Sponsored Laps for a Vital Cause
Children from Class 1 and the nursery at Blackawton Primary School, part of the Education South West trust, recently took to the school track for a Christmas-themed sponsored run. Donning Santa hats, the Early Years participants embarked on a fun-filled circuit, tackling a series of seasonal challenges designed to spread cheer and raise money.
The event was carefully crafted to be both memorable and engaging for the young fundraisers. Activities included dashing through magical bubbles, posting parcels down a chimney, feeding a reindeer with oats, and rolling pretend snowballs along the route.
Community Spirit in Action
The effort was truly a whole-school initiative. Year 5 pupils played a key supporting role, manning the activity stations and offering enthusiastic cheers to the younger children as they completed their run. This collaboration highlighted the strong community ethos within the Totnes school.
So far, the festive endeavour has raised an impressive £223 for Devon Air Ambulance. This charity is responsible for operating two emergency air ambulances and four critical care cars across Devon throughout the year. Notably, the service receives no government funding and relies entirely on donations from the local community and its supporters.
Life-Saving Lessons and Lasting Impact
Liam Fielding, Headteacher at Blackawton Primary School, reflected on the wider value of the event. "This event was a wonderful way for our youngest children to learn that even small actions can make a big difference," he said. "They had enormous fun while also supporting a charity that truly saves lives."
Matthew Shanks, CEO of Education South West, expressed his pride in the pupils. "I am incredibly proud of our young pupils at Blackawton Primary for showing such generosity and enthusiasm," he stated. "Their efforts not only raise vital funds for a life-saving service but also teach important lessons about community spirit, kindness, and the impact each of us can make."
The school has extended its thanks to everyone who has donated to the cause. Contributions can still be made via the school's JustGiving page, with every penny helping to keep Devon Air Ambulance's essential services running across the county.
