Kennet School has celebrated an exceptional year of fundraising by its Parent Teacher Association Community (PTAC), which raised an incredible £34,851.88 during the 2025-26 academic year.

The remarkable total was announced at the PTAC’s Annual General Meeting and represents the culmination of a year filled with hugely successful events, generous donations and support from volunteers across the school community, all made possible by the commitment of Kennet’s PTAC.

Among the year’s fundraising highlights, the popular Thatcham Tornadoes event raised more than £8,700, whilst Thatcham’s only fireworks display, organised jointly with Francis Baily Primary School’s PTA, generated over £6,700. The PTAC Quiz and Year 7 Halloween Disco also each raised more than £1,000 per event.

Non-uniform days contributed a further £2,326, whilst £1,400 was secured through match funding. The West Berkshire Lottery also raised more than £910 for the school.

Behind these impressive figures was a tremendous amount of work by Kennet’s PTAC and volunteers. Across the year’s events, they sold more than 1,800 cans of drink, 900 tubs of Pringles, 700 burgers and 100 bottles of prosecco.

Funds raised by the PTAC directly enhance the opportunities and experiences available to Kennet pupils. Throughout the year, the PTAC also continued putting funds aside for a new school minibus and has now raised £24,228 towards the £50,925 needed.

Mr M Gayler, Acting Headteacher, said: “On behalf of everyone at Kennet School, I would like to express my deepest gratitude to our extraordinary PTAC. Raising £34,851.88 in a single academic year is a phenomenal achievement, but the figures alone cannot capture the countless hours, enormous effort and genuine care that sit behind this total.

“Every event organised, burger served, drink sold and ticket purchased helps to create additional opportunities for our pupils and makes a tangible difference to their experience at Kennet. Our PTAC volunteers give their time so generously, often working quietly behind the scenes, and their contribution to our school community is truly invaluable.

“I would particularly like to publicly thank Lyse Moss, Chair; Liz Fisher, Vice Chair; and Steve Curtis-Read, Treasurer, for their unwavering dedication and support throughout the year. We are incredibly fortunate to have them, and I hope every member of the PTAC knows just how valued and appreciated they are. This outstanding total is a testament to what can be achieved when our school and wider community work together.”

Lyse Moss, PTAC Chair, said: “It’s wonderful to look back on everything the PTAC has achieved over the past year. Raising £34,851.88 is an incredible result and something that we are very proud of.

“This total represents far more than just a figure. It reflects the dedication of our volunteers, the generosity of parents, families and staff, and the fantastic support we receive from the wider school community.

“What makes all the hard work worthwhile is knowing that the money we raise directly benefits Kennet pupils. Whether it is creating new opportunities, supporting school activities or helping us move closer to purchasing a new minibus, we can see the positive impact of everyone’s generosity.

“We’ve had a fantastic year, and I’m incredibly proud of what we have achieved together. A huge thank you to everyone who has supported the PTAC in any way. We’re looking forward to building on this success and continuing to support Kennet and its pupils in the year ahead.”

Kennet’s PTAC is always pleased to welcome new volunteers. Parents and carers do not need to make a regular commitment, even helping at just one event can make a real difference and would be greatly appreciated.

Anyone interested in lending a hand is encouraged to contact the PTAC: kennetpta@gmail.com