Pupils at Drake Primary Academy are set to benefit from a revamped library and enhanced calm spaces thanks to an £800 donation from local community group Hearts and Smiles Together. The funds, raised through the school's PTFA, will transform the Key Stage 2 library and improve tranquil areas across the academy to support children's wellbeing and learning.
Reading at the Core
Reading is a core focus at the Reach South Academy Trust school, and the donation arrives at a perfect time to foster a lifelong love of books. The upgraded spaces will ensure students can enjoy daily reading and story times in a refreshed, inspiring environment designed to help them thrive. The school also emphasises wellbeing and inclusion, helping pupils feel supported and ready to learn.
Community Support
Hearts and Smiles Together is a volunteer-led fundraising group in Plymouth that raises money for local causes through affordable sales, raffles, auctions, and community events. Staff at Drake Primary Academy said the donation will make a genuine difference to pupils' daily school experience and praised the group's generosity and community spirit.
Miss Jessica Plummer, assistant headteacher at Drake Primary Academy, said: “This donation will make a real difference to our pupils. We have big plans for our Key Stage 2 library, and this money will help us to create a rich environment that promotes a love and passion for reading for all pupils. Our many calm spaces around the school are incredibly important to us and our pupils, as they support wellbeing and provide a safe, supportive environment where they can reset and focus. This money will go towards ensuring these spaces feel even more welcoming and fit for purpose. We are very grateful to Hearts and Smiles Together for their generosity, and to our wonderful PTFA for helping to secure the funding.”
Fundraising Impact
A spokesperson for Hearts and Smiles Together said: “We are really pleased to be able to support Drake Primary Academy. Knowing the money will help improve spaces for children to read, learn and feel calm makes all the fundraising worthwhile. We’re glad to have worked with the PTFA and school community to help make this happen.”
The donation will directly improve the learning environment for pupils, reinforcing the school's commitment to reading and wellbeing. The project is expected to be completed in the coming months, with the new library and calm spaces available for students to enjoy.
