PTA

What does our PTA do and why should you join?

Our PTA is very much at the heart of our school community. Our Children, Parents, Head Teacher, Teachers, Staff and School Governors are very complimentary about our activities and the role we play in strengthening the school community.

Our Parent Teacher Association (PTA), is a committee with a mission to make Longwood a better place for our children to learn. Longwoods' PTA brings together parents, teachers and children to raise funds and strengthen the school community. Money raised is usually spent on the lovely special things e.g. seasonal gifts that the school budget does not cover. The PTA ask for recommendations on what they can fund raise for e.g. the trim trail, forest school classroom, outdoor stage and then work towards the approved goal. 

Why should I join?

There are many reasons why you should join our PTA. From making new friends and getting to know the school environment, through to helping raise much needed funds and making a difference to the children and school community. All of these things help you grow in confidence as a parent and it feels good to know you are making a difference for your children and for generations to come. When you first join the Longwood family you will be encouraged to support at least one event so you get to feel what being a member is like. Honestly it isnt as scary as you think and a great way to meet new friends.

Why did some of our exsisting members join?

Mandy: 'I joined the PTA because I felt I could make a difference. I wanted to give back, encourage the children and come up with new ideas to make things fun! Since joining the Longwood PTA I’ve realised that I get a huge satisfaction from seeing the children’s smiling faces at our events and when we are able to provide new items and experiences.  It’s so emotionally rewarding and makes all the hard work worthwhile.'

Rachel: 'My primary school years were full of happy memories of my Mum helping at the discos and attending school trips. I wanted to give my children those same precious memories. I soon found that volunteering at PTA events helped me make friends in all year groups and I also got to know the teachers on a whole different level. Fundraising and seeing what a difference the money makes to the children is incredible, but the sense of community spirit created by volunteering is what I will look back on with huge fondness when my children leave the school.'

What will be expected of me? 

There is no expectation on any parent volunteer, any amount of time you can give to the PTA will always be well received. There are a variety of ways you can get involved, from engaging with social media activity, attending PTA Meetings through to volunteering at events or coordinating events. Even donating preloved items, raffle prizes or suggesting brilliant ideas are ways of getting involved. There seems to be a myth that if you get involved with your PTA you will never be able to escape! We make it clear that parents can come to our meetings to just listen and learn, or they can take a more active role if they want to, there are no set expectations.

Why is it important for Longwood to have a PTA?

Our PTA  helps strengthen the child, parent, school community and is a huge marketing tool for the school and enhances Longwoods reputation. Our PTA  helps communicate with families more effectively, enhances fundraising efforts and helps qualify for grants and awards to support the school.