CHILDREN from a Solihull school have raised nearly £15,000 for a small borough charity in a phenomenal fundraising effort.
The school council at Eversfield Preparatory School on Warwick Road selected Newlands Bishop Farm to receive the donation.
The farm in Catherine de Barnes is designed to give people with learning disabilities and mental health problems the opportunity to learn work based skills.
The farm teaches in areas such as horticulture, woodwork, gardening, horse care, catering, retail and animal husbandry.
Through the academic year, the children organised a range of events including biscuit sales and charity breakfasts – they even spent one whole day in their pyjamas.
An Eversfield bake-off took place, with the finalists awarded for making the most mouth-watering lemon drizzle cakes.
Children also entered a competition to design a cake for Prince Harry and Meghan Markle’s royal wedding last month.
Headmaster Mr Yates says: “Every year I am so proud of the children who rally to support our chosen charity.
“This year has been no exception.
“Some of our pupils have had the opportunity to visit the farm and see for themselves the work that is going on there.
“They have raised a huge amount and in doing so have a helped a small charity to continue to make a huge difference to the lives of people in our local community.
“They should all be very proud of themselves.”
The final total was £14,566.41 as the whole charity year culminated in the school participating in an open afternoon of sponsored sports activities which included gym circuits, running and swimming.
Staff and children from the art department designed and made a new sign for the farm in the shape of a tractor with wheels that actually turn.
A spokesperson from the farm said: “Wow we are in complete shock. Thank you so much to everyone at Eversfield for all their hard work and generosity. It’s absolutely fantastic, thank you.”
Kate Hughes, who accepted the cheque on behalf of the farm, said it was overwhelmed with the donation and believes the small charity organisation will be able to make huge improvements as a consequence.
You can learn more about Newlands Bishop Farm, the work they do and how you can support them at www.newlandsbishopfarm.co.uk
