PRESS RELEASE: Heycroft Primary School Awarded Official Fairtrade School Status

Fairtrade Schools: Commitees from Heycroft Primary School and Southend High School for Boys

Heycroft School in Eastwood has become the first Southend Primary School to be awarded Fairtrade Status. The award is given to schools who show an ongoing commitment to using and promoting Fairtrade products over a period of time. The school’s Fairtrade committee consisting of pupils, governors and staff have organised and led a number of special events over the past 18 months including raffles, sales, competitions and a Fairtrade Family Breakfast. Children across the school have also been learning about Fairtrade in class and have had visitors to the school from the charity Actionaid and a farmer from Uganda to speak to the children in assemblies.

Heycroft recently met up with the Fairtrade committee from Southend High School Boys to share ideas for the future. The pupils from SHSB shared their research on Fairtrade footballs and sports equipment. They also looked at Fairtrade clothing and are planning a fashion show in the near future.

Headteacher Andrew Palmer said: “The children have been fully engaged with the principles of Fairtrade and have become fantastic ambassadors for this very important organisation which ensures workers receive a fair wage for the work they do. I am delighted that year 6 pupils who are going to SHSB will be carrying on their good work.”

Leigh-on-Sea Fairtrade Town coordinator, David Elcock said: "As a Fairtrade Borough, we congratulate Heycroft on their excellent work and would encourage other local schools to become involved".

ENDS

For more information
Andrew Palmer Headteacher, Heycroft Primary School 01702 521832
http://www.fairtradeleigh.org.uk/