Courageous Advocacy

Non uniform day and bake sale for the Turkey and Syria earthquake appeal

Members of the Christian Council at Beresford Memorial First School were moved to action by the recent tragic earthquake in Turkey and Syria. At one of their recent meetings the children were discussing their role as Courageous Advocates and if there was anything they felt strongly about and wanted to do something to help.

Chloe had seen the earthquake on Newsround and Ruth suggested having a prayer space and a bake sale, whilst Reverend Matt suggested a non-uniform day. The idea was planted and with the help of their teacher, Mrs Tatton, the children approached their Headteacher for permission.

Headteacher Mrs Quinn said she “thought it was a brilliant idea and fully reflected the school’s Christian Vision and Values”.

Ruth and Faith made posters and put them up all around school, whilst Mrs Quinn contacted parents and carers for donations.

Mrs Tatton, Chair of the School’s Christian Council said: “To raise £387.40 is amazing and shows what a fantastic school and local community we have here at Beresford. We are so grateful to everyone who baked and bought cakes and donated for wearing non-uniform.”

Mrs Quinn said: “I am so proud of the Christian Councillors and everyone in and out of school for helping to make the day a success and raise funds for the terrible situation in Turkey and Syria.”

Masoyi Trust

The school has links with the Masoyi Trust in South Africa. When the children either donate or use the uniform bank at St Pauls, their money goes to helping the Masoyi Community Development Foundation which is a Christian organisation dedicated to providing care and support to the sick, orphaned, vulnerable and destitute in the wider community, especially to those infected with and affected by HIV/AIDS. Reverend Barry Wilson came into to explain their work. Chase Y2 said: “It’s like children helping children”.

People of Hope Project

A competition ran by the Lichfield Diocese, Adobe and TA Education has been undertaken by Year 4.

The competition follows the theme of celebrating difference and diversity. Pupils will be asked to reflect on the following questions about themselves and their school:

• Who am I? Opportunities to explore personal identity, including faith, as part of multiple identities.
• Who are we? Celebrating diversity, including similarity and difference.
• Where do we live? Promoting community and a sense of pride and belonging for all.
• What are our hopes and aspirations? Aspirations for ourselves and hope for the community we belong – considering how we can work together to achieve those hopes.