Local charity, CHICKS has received a huge financial boost after a year’s worth of fundraising at the School.

CHICKS received £27,000 after a number of fundraising events were organised throughout the last academic year. The cheque amount is the largest ever raised by the School. The charity aims to provide as many disadvantaged children as possible with the life enhancing experience of a free respite break away in the countryside at one of their centres in Devon or Cornwall. CHICKS helps children from a variety of different backgrounds, including children growing up in poverty, children of prisoners, and children who have been abused, either physically, emotionally or sexually. CHICKS also provides breaks for young carers.

The Pupils organised events including a Race Night and a Gala Evening. Newly wed staff members, Patricia Parrouty and Tom Hadcroft, as part of their honeymoon, walked to Santiago across Spain to raise money.

The money will go towards a number of summer camps for children needing respite. Seven pupils have volunteered to help at these camps during the school holiday.

School Chaplain, Reverend Clive Case, said: “This money will make a huge difference to the charity CHICKS, St John’s was only too happy to contribute to such a worthwhile cause. Staff and pupils really took the charity to their hearts, recognising the importance of giving less advantaged children the opportunity to enjoy their childhood.

Deputy Headmaster, Mark Mortimer, with CHICKS Chief Executive, Roy Endecott, Staff and Pupils