Kildwick School CE Primary School recently held a Games Night to raise funds for the Down Syndrome Training and Support Service in Bingley, as well as their own school Parent-Teacher Association.
The Down Syndrome Training and Support Service holds particular significance to the school as they prepare to welcome Orla Smith into their school community this September. Orla, whose elder brother Leo is already a valued member of Kildwick School, has benefitted from the ongoing support of the Down Syndrome Training and Support Service since she was just eight weeks old. Orla’s Mum, Jenn says, ‘the sessions Orla attends support children in becoming ready to start mainstream education alongside their typical peers; a huge factor in Orla being able to follow in her big brother’s footsteps and start at Kildwick in September. Sadly, the charity has seen a significant decrease in donations and funding bids due to the current financial climate, as well as an increase in the costs of running the centre. This has resulted in cuts to staffing and consequently a reduction of the services which are provided to children and their families. In order to continue to improve the lives and futures of children with Down syndrome the charity have set a fundraising goal of £100,000"
The Games Night brought together children, parents, and teachers for a delightful evening of bingo, beetle drive, and a homemade meal of pie and peas made by their very own school cook. Children from school also took the initiative to run stalls, generating additional funds for both the charity and their school. In total the evening raised over £700.
Head Teacher, Tim Whitehead, expressed his delight at the success of the Games Night, stating, "It was a chance for the school community to get together and have some good old-fashioned fun alongside raising some money for school and a very deserving charity. As a school, we pride ourselves on our inclusive ethos, organisations such as the Down Syndrome Training Service are crucial in supporting children, families and the school to give the children the very best school experience.
As members of a caring community, it is imperative that we rally together to support our local initiatives and charity organisations that work tirelessly to improve the lives of children. We encourage people to consider supporting the Down Syndrome Training and Support Service in any way they can, whether through donations or participation in future events. Together, we can make a difference and ensure that all children have bright futures ahead”.
