EVENTS – Identify the PTA
‘Our mini helper lanyards make the PTA kids feel special too,’ Jo Holland, Friends of Goffs Oak School
‘A skilful mum made these aprons with pockets for cash,’ Hazel Mortimer, Friends of Queen’s Manor
‘I printed some stickers as a last-minute idea,’ Nicky Webb, Friends of Lindridge School
Identify the PTA
What’s the best way to make volunteers stand out at an event? Daniel Etherington looks at the options
In the whirl of activity at events, visitors need to see who’s running the show. Here are the best ways to make your volunteers more visible.
POPULAR MOST
LANYARDS Lanyards are ID cards attached to a ribbon and worn around the neck. PTAs can change the
insert for different events or to show the wearer's name and role. A firm PTA favourite, they are easy to wear and compact to store. Suppliers sell lanyards with ribbons
in a wide range of colours so you can match them to your school’s logo or uniform. The ribbon can be printed with text of your choice, such as the name of your PTA or school. One drawback is that they are small and can be hard to spot.
NOTICEABLE MOST
HI-VIS CLOTHING Plain waistcoats or gilets or are the most cost-effective option.
For a small cost, these can be printed with text and logos. Ask the school, local authority or nearby companies if they have spares they are willing to donate.
PRACTICAL MOST
APRONS The most helpful feature of an apron is its practical pockets. Bib aprons are a popular
style and are easier to pick out in a crowd, but waist aprons are equally handy for storing change, pens or phones – useful for volunteers staffing stalls. Ask if any craft-loving parents or
carers could make aprons for the PTA, possibly using up fabric from surplus second-hand uniforms or tote bags.
COMFORTABLE MOST
SHIRTS A simple polo or T-shirt is arguably the most comfortable option. Source them in the
school colours and get them printed with your logo to make it obvious who’s part of the PTA team. Shirts will need washing after events, and not everyone will take the same size.
SPEEDY MOST
STICKERS Provide volunteers with stickers – it’s the quickest and cheapest option too. Get your
stickers printed commercially, or if
pta.co.uk SPRING 2023 47
SUPPLIERS FIND
Go to
pta.co.uk/ suppliersearch
you have a colour printer, buy sticker sheets and make them yourself. Keep it simple by having them all the same, or create a design with space to write the volunteer’s name or job role. Keep a few extras for when they come unstuck and fall off.
And the rest...
Tabards: The open-sided garments worn by some professional cleaners. There’s no need to worry about different sizes, and many have a practical pocket too.
Badges: Choose from pin-on badges with plastic sleeves for an insert or simple button badges. Buy online or ask if anyone has a badge maker and make your own.
Humorous headgear: Give the PTA something distinctive to wear, such as Santa hats or reindeer antlers, for a fun option at Christmas events.
IMAGES: MARK ASTAKHOV; SERHII BROVKO; ARCHIVECTOR; GREYJ/
ISTOCKPHOTO.COM
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