A pupil at a Catholic primary school in West London has raised more than £7,000 to fund a new climbing frame for younger children, demonstrating the values of service and community encouraged within the school.
Eight-year-old James “JC” Connor, a pupil at Our Lady & St John’s Primary School in Brentford, raised £7,410 after learning through the School Council that younger pupils hoped for improved playground equipment.
Rather than simply raising the issue, JC decided he wanted to help make it happen.
With the encouragement of teachers and family, he organised a school raffle and launched an online fundraising campaign, inspiring parents, friends and members of the wider community to support the project.
The fundraising effort eventually raised enough money to fund the installation of a brand new climbing frame, which pupils will begin using this week following a ribbon-cutting ceremony at the school.
Teachers say JC’s initiative reflects the spirit of Catholic Social Teaching, which encourages young people to serve others and contribute positively to their communities/
JC said:
“When I joined the School Council I heard younger pupils saying they wished they had a better climbing frame.
So I decided to raise the money to make it happen. It’s really cool seeing it here now.”
Mrs Kelliher, headteacher of Our Lady & St John’s Primary School, said the project had been a powerful example to other pupils.
“JC’s fundraising is a wonderful example of how our pupils live out the values we teach in school. His kindness and determination show how even the youngest members of our community can make a real difference.”
The funds were raised through several initiatives organised by JC:
• School raffle (Disney on Ice box)
• Online auction
• A Just Giving fundraising page
Several of JC’s classmates also contributed design ideas for the climbing frame, while a parent from the school community volunteered to assist with surfacing work during installation.
Together, the project became a small example of how a school community can work collaboratively to serve others and support younger pupils.
Following installation of the equipment, JC was invited to cut the ribbon as younger pupils used the climbing frame for the first time.
The school has also recognised his contribution during assembly with its ‘Disciple of Hope’ certificate, celebrating pupils who demonstrate kindness, initiative and service to others.
