Friends of Springfield School

The Friends of Springfield School (FoSS) is a registered charity that :-

  • provides financial support to Springfield School to enhance the educational experiences of the pupils
  • organises events that provide social opportunities for pupils and their families and the chance to develop mutual support
  • works to raise the profile of the School and special needs in the local community

The FoSS was set up in September 2013 and replaced the PTA. We have four key aims:

The FoSS organises social events and activities for school families, such as discos and picnics. These events are generally free or very low cost. We also work closely with local businesses, community groups and grant providers to generate extra income for the school.  We also work with individuals who choose to make us the recipient of their sponsored events, such as running a marathon or taking on a cycling challenge.

If you’d like to be involved in the great work the FoSS does we’d love to hear from you!

Please contact us via the email – chloe.bartlett@springfield.oxon.sch.uk

The work of the Friends of Springfield School reaches into every facet of school life. Below are some examples of these benefits.

Sensory Equipment:Sensory equipment helps pupils to grow the ability to focus and develop new skills. In addition it can be used to promote relaxation and well-being. The FoSS has purchased new and improved sensory equipment to the tune of £2,500 in the last year.

The Arts: Theatre company, Oily Cart, specialises in multi-sensory productions. The FoSS has funded visits to Springfield by Oily Cart for 2 years in a row. Cost approx. £5,000.
Technology: The use of technology in special needs education facilitates communication and allows pupils to better access the curriculum. In the last year, the FoSS has spent over £4,000 on inclusive technology.
Outside spaces: Young people are stimulated by the outdoors and typically experience, over time, an increase in their self-belief and emotional well-being. In the last year, the FoSS has spent £15,000 purchasing and installing new outside play equipment.
Horse riding: Horse riding offers therapeutic benefit on both physical & emotional levels to pupils. Each year the FoSS funds pupils to go horse riding with the local Riding for the Disabled group to the tune of approximately £3,500 a year.
Minibuses: Minibuses are vital to enable pupils to get out and about to access educational experiences such as horse riding, swimming, work experience, and other community activities. Each year the FoSS spends approximately £8,000 running and maintaining 4 minibuses.