Why schools need extra support
Funding for schools has been under pressure for many years, and this has real consequences for what schools can provide beyond the basics. Although overall spending continues, the amount of money available per pupil in real terms has fallen compared with more than a decade ago, meaning the money doesn’t stretch as far as it used to. In 2024–25, core school funding per pupil was estimated to be lower in real-terms than it was in 2010 - leaving many schools having to do more with less.
Schools spend the majority of their budgets on staffing - with teacher pay accounting for over half of expenditure - and also face rising costs for support services, energy, supplies and day-to-day running costs. At the same time, many schools are coping with increasing needs among pupils, such as special educational needs, which require additional support and resource.
Recent research suggests that a large number of schools will struggle to cover rising costs, with many unable to afford planned staff pay increases without making savings elsewhere. It’s been reported that up to three-quarters of primary schools and the vast majority of secondary schools may not be able to balance their budgets without cutting spending.
This squeeze on school budgets doesn’t just affect classrooms - it also impacts enrichment activities, equipment, resources, trips and the extras that make school life rewarding and engaging for students. That’s why fundraising through parents, carers and the wider community plays such a vital role in supporting our school, helping ensure we can offer opportunities that go beyond what core funding allows.
What is a PTA?
A Parent Teacher Association (PTA) is a group of parents, carers and staff who work together to support the school community through fundraising and engagement.
PTAs are run independently from the school and rely entirely on volunteers. The money raised is used to fund resources, activities and opportunities that benefit students and enhance their experience at school.
A PTA is also about community. It brings people together, supports positive relationships and helps create a strong link between families and the school.
Friends of Sir Thomas Fremantle School
Friends of Sir Thomas Fremantle School is our PTA. The group raises funds to support the school and help provide opportunities that sit outside the core school budget.
Funds raised are used to support projects and activities that benefit students and the wider school community. Friends also help build a sense of connection between families and the school, whether through fundraising initiatives, events or simple online support.
We need volunteers
Friends of Sir Thomas Fremantle School is run entirely by volunteers, and any level of help is welcome. You do not need to commit a large amount of time or attend every meeting.
Some volunteers help occasionally at events, some support specific projects, and others help behind the scenes when it suits them. Even a small amount of time can make a big difference.
Getting involved is also a great way to meet other parents and carers and feel more connected to the school community.
Support us through Easyfundraising
Friends of Sir Thomas Fremantle School are registered with Easyfundraising, which allows families to raise funds simply by shopping online.
Easyfundraising works with hundreds of well-known retailers. When you start your shopping through their website or app, the retailer donates a percentage of what you spend to Friends of Sir Thomas Fremantle School. You pay the same price you would normally pay.
Easyfundraising can be used for everyday shopping, but the largest donations come from higher-value purchases such as holidays, insurance renewals, mobile phone contracts, technology, furniture and household bills.
It is one of the easiest ways to support the school, even if you are unable to volunteer your time.