St Joseph’s School Building Fund
What is this Fund?
St Joseph’s School is blessed with outstanding facilities in a wonderful location. We are committed to ensuring that our classrooms and outdoor areas continue to be as safe and modern as possible to support your children’s learning.
Government funding for schools has been significantly reduced in various ways over the past few years. More than ever we need your help to keep your child’s school fit for purpose and to maintain its outstanding rating. This requires considerable expenditure each year.
Like all other faith schools. St Joseph’s is a Voluntary Aided (VA) school, which means that our grounds and buildings are only partly funded by the Local Education Authority. The government requires all Catholic and other faith schools in England to provide 10% of these costs. Last year some parents responded generously and raised over £18,000 – many giving more than the commitment of £60 per child that was suggested.
For 2018/19, we must raise more, and so we do ask and expect that every family makes a contribution.
What have we achieved in the past 5 years?
We have created our amazing Library which is amongst the best in Islington. Our librarian, offers intervention teaching and an attractive place for all the children to read a wide range of books. The library has had a significant and measurable impact on literacy progress and attainment at St Joseph’s.
“The library is amazing; unlike any other I have seen in a school. The children are incredibly lucky to have such a great facility.” Parent
The School entrance and reception area have been revitalized providing extra space and a pleasant and efficient place for parents and visitors to enter the School.
“The new school entrance represents what the school stands for” – Celesta Year 6
“I really like the new school reception, from the calming colours, to the larger reception desk for parents to speak to staff confidentially, as well as less waiting time when you are in a rush to work” – Parent
We created a state of the art outside learning area for our Early Years children and now have a show stopping zone for all of our Nursery and Reception children. . Again, this has had a demonstrable positive impact on teaching and learning for EYFS children, reflecting the high standards of achievement within the School and outstanding provision.
“Wow – this is the best play area in the world” – Sadie, Nursery Class
Last year we renovated and modernised the school kitchen, and were able to create a wonderful new class/conference room, ideal for lessons and community use.
“A vibrant new kitchen and conference room for all to enjoy. Just wonderful” Parent
What’s Next?
There are many demands and priorities for the school building and grounds and the more parent contributions we receive, the more we can do to enhance the school facilities for your child. We need to repair the school wall boundary and fences. We want to provide better sports equipment, and maintain and update the playground areas. Every pound you give will be carefully spent on selected improvements.
How can you help?
We are asking every parent to make a commitment to the School with a contribution of at least £60 per year (a minimum of £120 if 2 or more children in the school).
£60 per year equates to only £1.15 per week.
We ask you please make this commitment now. Payment can be made by a variety of means:
- By ParentPay through your account (preferred method).
- By cheque payable to St Joseph’s Primary School. Please write your child’s name and class on the back.
- By cash direct to the school office or transition meeting
- By Standing Order – see this attached form
- By bank transfer to:
Bank: Barclays Bank Plc
A/C Name: St Joseph’s Catholic Primary School – School Fund Account
A/C No: 73309789
Sort code: 20-00-00
Please include a reference with your child’s full name.
If you would prefer to pay my instalments, please do let us know. We will be happy to assist you with this.
If you pay UK tax (on wages, salaries, self-employed earnings or any other income) please Gift Aid your contribution using this form and boost it by 25p of Gift Aid from the government for every £1 you donate. Your £60 becomes £75 at no cost to you!
We want to continue to provide an outstanding education for your child. Your contribution to the school is essential to help us to do this. If you need any help with this or have any queries, you are most welcome to contact the School Office to arrange a meeting with a member of the Senior Leadership Team.
We thank you in advance for your contribution!
