Parents' Association

Introduction

RGSP are a group of parents who volunteer their time to raise funds to provide the children with equipment and facilities that are not provided for by the funding allocated to the school from the government. We meet monthly to plan and discuss ways we can raise funds. It is not all about raising money we do also organise social events for the parents. The committee needs the support of all parents either giving up some of their time or buying into the events organised.

History of the PA

In the records available to us we believe that the Parents’ Association started in October 1935. It would appear in the early days the parents had to pay a subscription of 1 shilling per annum! In those days the money raised was for causes in the community, in 1937 the PA were asked to consider financial help for the School Library. Through out the history of the PA there have been periods of enthusiastic activity and other times when very little has been recorded. Since the 1980’s the PA has been very active in raising funds for the school.

The work of the PA

• Fund raising through various events.
• Annual maintenance of planters and the school pond.
• Provision of school lockers.
• Provision of ICT equipment.
• Provision of music room equipment.
• Sports equipment.
• These are some of a very long list of materials and equipment, which have been purchased by the PA. We think of a fundraising event, discuss it at a meeting, if it is viable we plan organise and implement the plan. If it is a success we repeat the event as with the ball, now a firm fixture in the Ripon calendar.
• Organising the “200 Club”. The “200 Club” is an ongoing form of fund raising, 50% of the membership fee is used for equipment. An annual fee of £15.00 buys you a number in the monthly draw and a chance of winning £65.00 or £ 25.00. Application forms are available from Mrs Alex Whitfield, 200 Club administrator, c/o The School Office

Joining the PA

Join at the annual general meeting, or by contacting the school office that will pass on your details to a member of the committee. Details of the AGM can be found on the web site and in ‘Update’.

‘Update’ is a Newsletter produced by the PA once a term, giving information on forthcoming events also reporting on previous events.