Amanda Burgess is planning ahead to bring in funds and spread some warmth
W
ith the nights drawing in, I like to make the most of the daylight hours by going on an
autumnal walk. I love the seasonal colours, the crunch of leaves underfoot and the idea of gathering in the last fruits and crops and cooking up warming soups and hearty stews. As nature prepares for winter, I
prepare to hunker down and gather in ideas for planning. The start of the new academic year is a good time to refl ect on the previous one, looking at the hectic times and where you have funding needs and gaps. You can create a timeline to
work towards, making an action plan of the jobs that need to be completed and any grants that could be applied for. Start to seek support from local businesses, getting in early to avoid the rush. Have a look at your big events – and book the venues and any services that are required. Don’t forget to plan in some help
for the community too – our school aims to do a food bank collection at least bi-termly, which helps raise our students’ awareness of food poverty. There are three food banks in this seemingly affl uent East Sussex town. All are always are happy to receive support and come and talk to our students.
During the Covid years, we were
unable to hold our community tea party – a transition event where new Year 7s invited a grandparent or neighbour to enjoy entertainment, tea and chat. Instead, we started an initiative for new Year 7 students to send a ‘box of kindness’ to residents in our local care homes. This was so well received that we have continued with it. We ask students to make a card and this is put into a small box along with other items – such as chocolate, shower gel, hand creams, biscuits, crossword puzzles – to make the receiver feel people are thinking of them. It makes our students feel good too. With the campaign for schools
to work towards net zero by 2030, these dark, cold months are the ideal time to carry out an energy audit. Bills can soar if a window is left open or lights and computers are left on in classrooms, so why not look at initiatives to help you manage and reduce usage. Start small: changing habits takes time but will pay off in the long run. Get the students involved as they can then nag any culprits. Sign up to organisations which can help you work towards net zero with your students, such as the School Eco Awards. Look too at what voluntary organisations in your local area are doing and if they can support you with any energy-saving projects. In this season of giving, it’s always
good to help each other and spread a warm glow through your school and wider community!
Amanda Burgess has a part-time role as community liaison and income generating manager at Priory School, Lewes.
42 AUTUMN 2023 FundEd
IMAGES: KARINA MALAIA; SVETLANA LARSHINA/
ISTOCKPHOTO.COM
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