Rural School Holds Silent Auction for Minibus Fund

A rural primary school is organizing a silent auction to generate funds for a minibus, which would enable students to participate in off-campus excursions. Old Cleeve School, situated in Washford, Somerset, is offering more than 100 items for sale, including cider, signed rugby memorabilia, and restaurant gift certificates, all with the aim of raising money for a school bus. The primary school intends to provide its pupils with opportunities for trips to farms and other educational experiences beyond the traditional classroom setting. Emma Murch, the school’s headteacher, stated: “Children learn best when they can get very hands-on and very immersed in it. Because of budget cuts it’s harder and harder to get out.” Annie, a six-year-old pupil at the school, expressed her desire to visit “lots of different farms”. Ms Merch further commented: “Annie is from a farming family as many of our children are. “Putting children who are mostly outdoors into a classroom is not always conducive to learning. “They want to be outdoors, they’re used to being out free and learning from the experiences around them.”” She also mentioned that having the school’s own transportation was “really important” for exposing the pupils to “what’s out there”. The auction is taking place online, and participation is open until November 17. Bidders have the opportunity to place offers on items such as family outings, vacations, or cases of cider; all available items are provided by local businesses in Somerset. For updates, follow BBC Somerset on Facebook and X. Story ideas can be submitted via email or WhatsApp at 0800 313 4630. Copyright 2024 BBC. All rights reserved. The BBC disclaims responsibility for the content of external websites. Information regarding our external linking policy is available for review.