Valley Leadership Academy Pupils Make a Big Impact with Hospice Fundraiser
Pupils at The Valley Leadership Academy have made a significant impact through a heartfelt fundraising project in support of Rossendale Hospice. Naming their initiative 'Small Change for a Big Difference', the students embarked on a mission to raise money while ensuring every member of the school community could participate, regardless of financial circumstances.
Inspiring the School Community
The project began with pupils conducting research into the vital role hospices play in supporting patients and families. They then created and delivered an informative assembly for their peers, explaining what a hospice is and highlighting the compassionate work carried out by Rossendale Hospice within the local community. Inspired by the positive response from fellow pupils and staff, the school's fundraising team organised a series of small-scale events designed to build a strong sense of community by creating moments of joy and connection.
Developing Professional Skills
Throughout the project, pupils worked closely with staff, listening to each other and sharing ideas to make each event a success. The initiative also challenged them to develop a range of professional skills, including:
- Submitting detailed financial records
- Producing a written report documenting their progress
- Preparing a final presentation to share the outcomes of their work
Celebration and Recognition
The efforts culminated in a celebration event attended by local dignitaries, including the Mayor, representatives from Rossendale Hospice, and senior school staff. This occasion provided pupils with a valuable opportunity to showcase not only the results of their hard work but also the confidence, communication skills, and teamwork they had developed. The Valley team's professionalism, creativity, and collaboration were widely recognised, earning them first place in the Presentation category. Their fundraising contributed an impressive £1,140.20 towards the collective total of £10,413.62 raised by all participating schools.
Reflections from Participants
Reflecting on the project, Year 11 pupil Amy Haworth said: "I have really enjoyed being part of the fundraising team. It is a cause close to my heart as my grandad is accessing support from the hospice. The project has built my confidence and helped me to recognise my strengths."
Colette Roberts, Principal at The Valley Leadership Academy, added: "We could not be prouder of our Charity Ambassadors and Valley Volunteers, whose kindness, creativity, and determination have turned fundraising into a powerful act of community spirit and put our STAR value of Service into action. Their efforts for our local hospice show what young people can achieve when they lead with compassion and work together for something bigger than themselves."
She continued: "The events our pupils have organised have not only raised vital funds for the hospice but have also strengthened our positive school culture and brought our community even closer together. As pupils proudly wrote in their report – they truly have put the 'fun' into fundraising."
