Funding to provide school celebrations all year at Pennyburn Primary, including a Santa’s Grotto, so every child can join in without high family cost
Project Description
We are applying for £1,000 to fund a year of free school celebrations at Pennyburn Primary. These will include seasonal discos, end-of-term events, community celebrations, and our very popular Santa’s Grotto this year featuring Ayrshire’s Number One Santa, ‘Do You Believe in Santa Claus Ayrshire’.
Pennyburn is one of the most deprived areas in North Ayrshire, with several data zones in the top 20% most deprived in Scotland (SIMD 2020). Many families struggle with the cost of living, and high charges for events can cause stress or lead to children missing out. We want to make sure every child can experience the joy of school celebrations, without any financial barrier for parents.
This project will guarantee that all children can enjoy the same positive, magical experiences with their friends, no matter their background. The funding will cover entertainment, decorations, refreshments, and transport. By removing all costs to families, we will deliver a school year of celebrations, helping reduce inequality, boosting wellbeing and confidence, and strengthening community spirit.
Breakdown of costs:
Event entertainment (DJs, Santa’s Grotto, performers, facilitators) – £500
Decorations & resources – £200
Refreshments & snacks – £200
Transport – £100Total: £1,000
How have young people been involved in shaping this project?
The answer to this question is private.
Location: This project will take place at Pennyburn Primary School in Kilwinning, which sits within one of the most deprived areas in North Ayrshire. Several Pennyburn neighbourhoods are ranked in the 20% most deprived areas in Scotland (SIMD 2020), meaning that many local families face financial pressures and the impact of the cost-of-living crisis. Pennyburn Primary is at the heart of the community, providing not only education but also a safe and welcoming space for children and families. It is a central point where the community comes together, and school celebrations play a huge role in building belonging and pride. Unfortunately, costs for events such as discos or festive activities can create barriers, leaving some children unable to take part. By funding a full year of free school celebrations in this location, we can remove these barriers, ensuring all children in Pennyburn—regardless of background—can enjoy the same positive, memorable experiences with their friends. This project directly benefits the children of Pennyburn Primary and their families, strengthening community spirit in one of Kilwinning’s most vulnerable areas.
Proposed on behalf of: The Pennyburn Primary Parent Council & Community Group is a volunteer-led organisation made up of parents, carers, and local community members. Our purpose is to support the school, enhance opportunities for children, and strengthen the link between families, school, and the wider Kilwinning community. We work to ensure that every child has access to positive, inclusive experiences regardless of their family circumstances. We organise events, fundraising activities, and community projects that promote learning, wellbeing, and togetherness. In particular, we focus on tackling the barriers created by poverty and the cost of living, so that no child is excluded from activities or celebrations that their peers enjoy.
Most voted