A LOCAL primary headteacher has described how the school’s fundraising efforts have taught valuable life lessons.

When one of Mapplewell Primary’s pupils became seriously ill two years ago, her family wanted to give something back to the hospital that helped her recover and this has had a long-standing impact in school ever since.

Headteacher Sam Garrood said: “Two years ago one of our pupils suffered a significant bleed on the brain and it was touch and go for a time, we thought we were going to lose this lovely girl.

“She thankfully made a full recovery and her family really went into overdrive to support Sheffield Children’s Hospital where she was treated.

“The school got involved with a non-uniform day and lots of the children supported the fundraising.

“And that really was the start of the snowball. I decided that we should do regular fundraising so at the start of the following school year I selected five charities, provided lots of information about them, held assemblies and organised a whole school vote to choose which one we were going to support.

“The charities ranged from big charities like Unicef and Wateraid to Sheffield Children’s and Barnsley Hospital Charity.

“Once the votes were counted it shone through that our school community wanted to support Barnsley Hospital. Loads of parents said that it was an easy choice. So many of our families have been helped by the local hospital.”

And the school’s impressive efforts have earned praise from the hospital charity’s charity development manager Jane Mills who has nominated them in the Proud of Barnsley School of the Year category.

“Mapplewell Primary School has gone above and beyond in support of Barnsley Hospital Charity, earning their place as a truly exceptional school. In November 2024, the school proudly sponsored a star as part of the charity’s festive campaign, setting a fundraising target of £500 a goal they didn’t just reach, but absolutely smashed, raising a phenomenal £5,002 through a series of imaginative and community-driven events.

“Pupils and staff alike got involved with passion and enthusiasm. The school hosted a Santa Saunter where every child in the school ran a lap of the school to festive music marking a wonderful sense of excitement for the festive season.

“In March the school hosted a LEGO Walk, where every child and many brave teachers, including Head of School Mr. Garrood — walked barefoot over LEGO bricks to raise money. Not stopping there, seven staff members took on the Barnsley 10K, proudly wearing our charity colours to boost visibility and support.

“Individual pupils also led their own fundraising efforts, showing initiative and a deep understanding of the importance of giving back. Their commitment reflects the school’s ethos of empathy, courage, and community spirit.

“Mapplewell Primary has also helped raise awareness of the charity’s work, with pupils even performing at the festive lights switch-on, singing to bring joy to patients and staff who watched through hospital windows. The moment captured the heart of the school’s mission: bringing light, connection, and kindness to those who need it most.

“The atmosphere at Mapplewell is something truly special a nurturing environment filled with smiling, polite, and well-behaved children who demonstrate a strong sense of community and belonging who are clearly demonstrating the school values of ‘Developing a kind, respectful and happy community that promotes resilience and independence in all. Encouraging our pupils to leave Primary Education inspired and ready to contribute to the wider world every day. Their drive to support others and make a difference is nothing short of inspirational, making them outstanding ambassadors for Barnsley Hospital Charity and deserving winners of the School of the Year award.

Mr Garrood said: “Everyone in school including pupils, parents and staff have worked really hard on this and it really is delightful to be recognised with this nomination. The fundraising has made a big difference in school and has taught the kids so much, real life lessons so this is lovely recognition for everyone.”