Friends of School (FOS)
FOS is our school’s association that brings together parents and staff to promote opportunities for our school to raise important funds that impact on the children and organise events so that the children can have fun and enjoy their primary years!
FOS has previously raised annual incomes of more than £5k so it is registered as a charity with the Charity Commission. The FOS Committee consists of the Chair, Se
cretary and Treasurer, these are a legal requirement of its charity status. As a school we are really pleased that FOS is starting to re-establish as we
appreciate just how beneficial it is to our school family.
You may have noticed that we have enjoyed FOS events such as the Summer Discos at the end of the summer term last year, the Chocolate Hamper Raffles at Christmas and this week’s preloved uniform sale. FOS also ensure our Year 6 children leave All Saints with many happy memories of their time together at school through organising the Hoodies and providing end of year treats. FOS is very much at the heart of our school community.
Why have a Friends of School group?
FOS is an organisation with a mission to help the school grow and be a better place for children to learn. The aim is to bring parents, teachers and children together to raise funds and strengthen the school community. Money raised is usually spent on things that the school budget does not cover.
Why should I help FOS?
There are many reasons why you should join FOS. From making new friends and getting to know the school environment, through to helping raise much needed funds and making a difference to the children and school community. All of these things help you grow in confidence as a parent, and it feels good to know you are making a difference for your children and for generations to come.
What will be expected of me?
There is no expectation on any parent volunteer, any amount of time you can give to FOS will always be well received. There are a variety of ways you can get involved, from engaging with social media activity, attending FOS Meetings through to volunteering at events or coordinating events. Even donating preloved items, raffle prizes or suggesting brilliant ide
as are ways of getting involved. There seems to be a myth that if you get involved with FOS you will never be able to escape! Parents can come to our meetings to just listen and learn, or they can take a more active role if they want to, there are no set expectations.
How do I join FOS?
You automatically become a member of FOS simply by being a parent at our school. If you would like to take a more active role and find out more about FOS volunteering opportunities, then attend our meetings. This is a great first step and everyone is welcome. It is always a good idea to attend a few meetings to get to know how FOS works and then when you are more confident you can start to take a more active role if you wish. You could always take a friend or two along and take on some tasks together.
Why is it important for schools to have a Friends of School group?
A good Friends of School association helps strengthen the child, parent, school community by increasing family engagement. FOS can help communicate with families more effectively, enhance fundraising efforts and qualify for grants and awards to support the school. Friends of School groups are often referred to as the heart of the school community and in our case FOS really is.
How will I know when FOS meetings or events are taking place?
All FOS meetings and events are published in the weekly school newsletter under ‘Diary Dates’ and advertised either within the newsletter itself or on the school’s Social Media Sites.
Communications are sent out via Parent Mail to the email address held on file. Please contact the school office if you would like to receive this information to m
ore than one email address.
What has FOS got planned for the coming months?
Saturday 23rd March FOS Pre-loved Sale of Baby & Children’s Items
Easter Holidays FOS Easter Trail around the Local Area
