’ – Ballyvester PTA Chairperson s Report
The school year 2018/19 was a less busy one than usual as early in the year the committee decided to focus on a couple of events which would generate income, so as to reduce the pressure on requesting funds and support from parents repeatedly throughout the year. This was in response to a survey conducted with parents. From the survey we learned that the most successful events were completed in school time and experience told us that the sponsored events tended to generate the most interest and funds.
The main event of the year was a sponsored lego day, held within school time. This generated an amazing £1331 for PTA funds, and the children enjoyed the range of lego themed activities held in each classroom for which some lego bricks were purchased (£105.81), which can be used by school for such an event in the future, or for after school activities.
In addition to this, a movie day in school and the refreshments stall at sports day generated £468.77 between them.
As usual this year PTA were pleased to support the school through the provision of gifts for children at Christmas and at Easter and badges for sports day – our expenditure on these items totalled £209.37. Our event expenses (£40) related to an event in the previous school year and the hospitality charges (£64.54) included the purchase of a gift for the host of our sports day, and the refreshments for movie night.
Therefore, although the income generated in year was less than the previous year, it was a profitable one, with much reduced expenses. As a result, we were pleased to be able to contribute £2000 towards the Accelerated reading scheme which all children will benefit from.
Thanks are due to all of the members of the PTA committee for their support and attendance at meetings and events during the year, to the teachers who facilitated events during school time and to the families who supported events to generate income for all of our children to benefit from. We were grateful to Santander for their support in the form of £2500, and in particular to the parent staff member who nominated our organisation for support.
The closing balance of £6760.95 represents a healthy position with which to start the 2019/20 year.
Alison McCaw Chairperson