Every family at South Darley is automatically a supporter of Friends of South Darley School (FOSDS), the school’s friends group, from the day their child starts — and so are our staff and governors. FOSDS is also open to anyone in the wider community with an affection for the school. FOSDS raises money for things that make school life richer for the children, and organises a Welcome Walk for new families. Its current project is new playground equipment.

What FOSDS does

FOSDS is run by volunteers, working alongside the school. It raises money through events and activities for the whole school community, and it is a friendly way for parents, carers and friends of the school to get to know each other.

Past events have included a local walk and pub social, discos, a plant sale, cake and ice-cream sales, parties for the Queen’s Jubilee and the King’s Coronation, and raffles with prizes donated by local businesses. We try to keep events affordable for families and fun for the children.

FOSDS holds an informal Annual General Meeting, usually in the autumn term, and everyone is welcome.

Second-hand uniform

FOSDS also runs a second-hand uniform sale. Items are £1 each. To donate, drop outgrown uniform at the school office, freshly washed and bagged. To buy, email FOSDS at FOSDSPTA@gmail.com with the items you would like and your child’s name.

How you can help

There is always something you can do — running a cake stall, baking, wrapping presents, designing a poster, helping to organise an event, or bringing a skill of your own. Even five minutes at an event makes a difference.

Working full time or having younger children at home doesn’t rule you out: some of our most active parents do both. And it is always fine to say no — the more people who help, the lighter the load for everyone.

To get involved, or if you have any questions, please contact the school office on 01629 732240 and we will put you in touch.