What is a pta?
PTA stands for Parent Teacher Association. The PTA supports the school by raising money to enhance, enrich and improve learning experiences for all pupils. A well-run PTA will form close ties with the school community, helping to connect school and
home life, so that parents become more positively engaged in their children's education.
There's also a social aspect to the PTA: parents are able to get together, meet parents of children in different year groups and work alongside each other while raising money for the school and supporting its aims.
Who runs the PTA?
PTAs are run by a committee of volunteers – usually parents of children at the school, and sometimes teachers too. At Holy Trinity C of E First School the PTA are a group of parents, who organise events and help at school, our aim is to raise money for equipment and other items the school wishes to buy.
An example of some of the events we organise during the school year are:
Our fantastic and very successful Film Nights, Bingo Night, Christmas Fair, Refreshments at - Sports Day, Grandparents Day Lunch, Harvest Festival, Cancer Coffee Morning and Remembrance Day.
Some events raise a large amount and some small amounts, but every penny counts. This is spent on visible things around school, which benefit every child. Examples of previous items are: willow tunnels, digital photo frame, sports equipment, reading books, garden improvements, iPads, whole school RE resources and a annual Christmas Pantomime for all children.
Our PTA spends time organising its own events as well as functions. Members can give as much or as little time as they are able. We try and make helping fun and we all enjoy ourselves, whilst making a worthwhile contribution.
If joining the PTA appeals to you, why not come along to our next meeting. We always welcome new members - mums, dads, grandparents, carers and are pleased to have new ideas. If you already know a member of the PTA, come along with them or alternatively speak to a PTA member in the playground to find out more.
What kind of things will i be expecected to do if i join?
Typically, PTAs organise and run fundraising events. So the most common job is helping out at fundraisers: can you bake a cake? buy supplies for an event? run the bar or help on the gate? If you still want to join the PTA but don't want to get involved in events, how about taking on a different job such as second-hand uniform coordinator or graphic designer? If you have specialist knowledge of fundraising, the PTA will welcome you with open arms.
Perhaps you work for a company that can offer benefits such as raffle prizes, discounts on refreshments or access to a local facility?
If you have an idea of what you'd like to do, or skills you can offer, make a suggestion!
HOW MUCH TIME WILL THE PTA TAKE UP?
That's up to you. Most PTAs are happy for you to volunteer as much time as you can reasonably give. If the PTA is holding a big event, it's reasonable to expect all hands on deck, but if you're new to the school and want to enjoy some events with your family, offer to help set up or clear away instead.
What will i get out of being on the pta?
- Meet parents from other year groups.
- Meet the teachers in a less formal setting.
- Widen your outlook and see the school from a different angle.
- Make new friends by working alongside members of your community.
- Learn new skills and increase your self-confidence.
- The satisfaction of knowing you've made a contribution.
- The knowledge that you've helped make the school.
We look forward in seeing you!
Holy Trinity PTA