Parents’, Teachers’ and Friends’ Association (PTFA)
Registered Charity No: 312643
Welcome to the Sacred Heart of Mary PTFA – a warm, inclusive community of parents, teachers and
friends all working together to support and enhance school life.
We understand how hard it can be to stay connected with the school once your child moves on from
primary school – no more chats at the school gate! That’s why the PTFA is so important: it’s your
way to stay involved, meet other parents, and make a meaningful difference through fundraising,
volunteering or even donating raffle prizes.
A brief history
Our PTFA was officially registered as a charity on 11th November 1973, originally under the name
The Upminster Convent School Parents’ Teachers’ and Friends’ Association. Over the years, it has
played a vital role in raising funds for minibuses, hall lighting and other valuable resources.
While the group paused during the Covid pandemic, we’re thrilled to say it’s now back with a
renewed sense of purpose and a fantastic team working hard to revive the fun events and vital
fundraising that support the school.
CAN YOU GIVE US SOME TIME?
Join our tea rota
Got a spare evening? We’re always looking for friendly volunteers to help serve teas and coffees at
school events. It’s a simple, sociable way to contribute – and much appreciated!
To get involved, just email [email protected]
Got an idea?
We’re always looking for new and exciting ways to raise money – ideas that involve the girls during
school days, or socials just for adults. No idea is too big or too small if you have a hardy group of
people who are willing to put in their time!
Meetings are held regularly and everyone is very welcome to attend and find out more. If you’re
interested in fidning out more, or have an idea, ping an email to [email protected]
TIME POOR? HERE ARE SOME WAYS TO SUPPORT US DURING YOUR NORMAL DAY!
While you shop – it’s free!
Did you know you can raise money for Sacred Heart of Mary PTFA simply by shopping online?
By registering with Easyfundraising, you can support us every time you shop with over 2,700 major
retailers – including Amazon, eBay, Tesco, Argos, Marks & Spencer, First Choice Holidays and many
more.
It won’t cost you a penny extra, but every purchase you make through the platform earns a donation
for our PTFA. Just search for “Sacred Heart of Mary PTFA! on easyfundraising.org.uk, and start
shopping!
Match funding – double the Impact
Does your workplace support charitable giving? Many companies offer match funding for employees
who raise money for registered charities. If your employer might be able to help, we’d love to hear
from you. Please contact Kerry Jones at [email protected]
The 500 Club – win while you give
The 500 Club is a fun and easy way to support the school and have a chance to win cash prizes every
month!
Here’s how it works:
- For £10 per month, you’ll be given a number between 1 and 500.
- Every month, we’ll hold a draw – with 25% of the annual income going out in prizes.
- The remaining funds directly benefit the school.
- Anyone aged 18 or over can join – parents, carers, staff, friends – and payments are made by
standing order. While this isn’t eligible for Gift Aid (because of the prize element), we
encourage all parents to register for Gift Aid when using SCOPAY, as many other
contributions (like the annual school fund) are eligible.
Interested? Just print and complete The 500 Club form here and return it to
Kerry Jones at the school, or email a scanned copy to [email protected]
Thank you for your continued support. Together, we can make a big difference to our school
community!