Pupils at Drake Primary Academy are set to benefit from an £800 community donation that will help transform the school’s library and improve dedicated wellbeing spaces.
The donation, raised by volunteer-led fundraising group Hearts & Smiles Together and presented through the school’s parent, teacher and friends association (PTFA), will be used to revamp the key stage two library and enhance calm spaces across the school.
The improvements are intended to support pupils’ reading, wellbeing and wider learning environment.
Reading is a key focus at Drake Primary Academy, part of the Reach South Academy Trust, with pupils encouraged to develop a love of books through daily reading, story time and access to a wide range of texts. The school also places a strong emphasis on wellbeing and inclusion to help pupils feel supported and ready to learn.
Hearts & Smiles Together is a volunteer-led fundraising group in Plymouth that raises money for local causes through affordable sales, raffles, auctions and community events.
Jessica Plummer, assistant headteacher at Drake Primary Academy, said: “This donation will make a real difference to our pupils.
“We have big plans for our key stage two library, and this money will help us to create a rich environment that promotes a love and passion for reading for all pupils.
“Our many calm spaces around the school are incredibly important to us and our pupils, as they support wellbeing and provide a safe, supportive environment where they can reset and focus.
“This money will go towards ensuring these spaces feel even more welcoming and fit for purpose.
“We are very grateful to Hearts & Smiles Together for their generosity, and to our wonderful PTFA for helping to secure the funding.”
A spokesperson for Hearts & Smiles Together said: “We are really pleased to be able to support Drake Primary Academy.
“Knowing the money will help improve spaces for children to read, learn and feel calm makes all the fundraising worthwhile.
“We are glad to have worked with the PTFA and school community to help make this happen.”
