Highworth Friends PTA is excited to announce the launch of our major fundraising campaign for the 2025-26 school year. This year, we are aiming to raise a total of £7,000 for two important projects.

First, we want to raise £1,000 to donate towards refurbishing and replenishing the much-loved school library. Then, we’re going to set our sights on a £6000 contribution the long-term goal of installing air conditioning in classrooms to improve comfort and learning during hot summer months.

Why Refurbish the Library?

The library at Highworth is the heart of our school community. Headteacher Mrs Pankhania said: “It is a vibrant, welcoming space that embodies our belief in the power of books to inspire curiosity, imagination, and a lifelong love of reading.”

However, much of our library collection hasn’t seen significant investment in over nine years. With around 5,000 books currently on the shelves, some favourites are looking tired and worn.

Our goal is to restock with at least 200 new books—fresh copies of best-loved stories and exciting new voices, including both fiction and non-fiction, selected based on popularity and quality.

The library’s central role means every child benefits, seeing them develop into expert, enthusiastic readers.

Air Conditioning for Better Learning

Every summer, uncomfortable classrooms have made it increasingly difficult for pupils and teachers to focus.

In recent years, there have been days when parents felt it unsafe to send their children in due to the heat, and local schools have closed early during heatwaves.

Mrs Pankhania highlights: “If we are to continue business as usual with parents and carers, rightly expecting that children attend school no matter what the weather, we need to start this rolling programme of AC installation.”

Your support will help create an environment where children and staff can thrive—maintaining high standards, wellbeing, and the positive relationships that define Highworth.

How to Support Our Campaign

Last year, with your wonderful help, we raised £5,000 for new technology including an incredible £1377 in direct donations, and we’re hopeful we can do it again this year with your help.

Many events are planned throughout the year: discos, quiz nights, and more.

Why It Matters

Mrs Pankhania puts it simply: “Funding everything we’d like to provide your children’s best education is getting harder and harder… Your support is invaluable and will mean we can keep on keeping on!”

Please join us in making a lasting difference at Highworth—every donation no matter how big or small, every event ticket, and every offer of help counts.

Thank you!

Highworth Friends PTA