Fundraising events like Central Takaka’s weekend car boot sale still vital to schools
A massive Car Boot Sale at Central Takaka School on Sunday 21 November was a fundraising success for school activities.
The day’s proceeds, amounting to around $1,000, will go towards the Room 2’s two-night camp to Tahunanui in Nelson next week, the Room 3 Sleepover Camp in week nine, and the remaining money will be put towards information and communications technology.
“On our wish list is a pod of laptops for children to use in the classroom,” said Central Takaka principal Liz Batten, who was delighted with the result.
There was a large turnout of stalls run by school families, staff and members of the community, with music, food, bargains and a family-friendly atmosphere. It also proved to be an opportunity to get some great deals on children’s Christmas presents.
Students Kainga and Maia Schinkel led pony rides, with the help of their parents, and there were rides on Kris Russell’s trap in the neighbouring paddock. Recreation co-ordinator Dave Myall also set up an archery stall.
Such events remain important to the school budget, says Liz. “Like most schools we are continually looking for ways to raise money for all the things our children need to support their learning and achievement.
“The extra money we raise each year is important in helping us reach our annual achievement targets and also helping us keep up to date with the latest resources available that we otherwise would not be able to provide.
“We are grateful to organisations like Pub Charity, Canterbury Community Trust and our local Golden Bay Organic Trust. With their support, we have been able to employ Sol Morgan as our Enviro-gardener for the past year, to purchase sets of reading books for our juniors, and this term we have received a grant for mimios [a tool that enables a wall to be used as an interactive whiteboard] to be set up in two of our classrooms.”
Liz said the school hopes the car boot sale will become an annual event.
“We were overwhelmed with the support we received from the community and many people approached us saying they hoped it would be held again.”
Maria Polglase
