Parent power hoping to fund school renovations

A Stoke Newington primary school has launched a £50,000 fundraising mission to pay for repairs and renovation.
 
Parents at Betty Layward are pulling out all the stops for Project Renovate: a mission to decorate the school’s upper floor, which includes eight classrooms.  
 
As well as selling merchandise such as Team Betty tote bags and tea towels designed by students, a series of Betty’s Talks have taken place at a local pub, with talented parents such as former Loaded founder James Brown as guest speakers.
 
Kirsty Trafford-Own, whose three children attend the school and who has helped with the fundraising, said: “This part of the school hasn’t been improved for over 15 years and is now looking (and feeling) tired and worn. It’s in need of repair and renovation to give our children more beautiful spaces in which to learn. Classrooms that feel loved and looked after, just like they are. A place that helps them bring their best self to their learning. A space that brings them light, space and joy!
 
“We’re around halfway towards our fundraising target.  This is work the government should fund but, since they’re not, the parents are stepping up.  Ideally, we’d like to start work during the summer holidays but I’m not sure we’ll have enough funds by then.
 
“We have a Go Fund Me page and we’d love people to give what they can.”
 
Earlier in the year around 85 children from the school took part in the Hackney Half, raising almost £8,000. Another popular event was a Disco Bingo night at the school, hosted by parents and featuring karaoke and dance-offs.
 
This isn’t the first time parent power has come to the rescue – in 2019 Project Playground raised £50,000 to redesign the woodlands at the back of the school and for new play equipment.
To donate to Project Renovate click here.