Shaw Parent Teacher Association present school with £11,000

The PTA raised the bumper amount throughout the year with events including school discos, a toy fair, a movie night, the summer fair and even a sponsored pancake toss.

Money is also raised through the sale of personalised Christmas cards and calendars as well as DVD's of the children's pantomime and nativities.

Children and staff gathered at the school for a special assembly, themed around "heroes", where the cheque was presented and thanks was given to the school's PTA heroes who donate their time and energy to supporting the school.

Chair of the PTA Sharon Morris said: "It is fantastic to be able to present the school with the money we have raised this year.

"We have a great team who spend hours attending meetings, volunteering at events or even using their own skills to help us raising money for the school

"They are hard working, dedicated and committed individuals with a strong desire to improve the school and community environment whilst facing daily challenges.

"We work hard at the events but it is always worth it when you see the smiles on the children's faces and know that they are having a good time.

"The events also offer the children chances to learn a new skill set and bring the wider community around St Joseph's together, which is really important."

In the past, money raised has been used to provide laptops, playground equipment, sport kits, new books, author visits and even chicks which the children were able to watch hatch and grow.

Headteacher Garry Needle added: "We are very lucky to have an amazing PTA who work hard to raise money for the school.

"The money that they raise allow us to provide equipment, events and activities at the school that our budgets do not allow for usually.

"The PTA are part of the fabric of the school and without their help events like the toy sale and the discos would not be able to happen.

"The impact they have on the children's lives and the community as a whole is priceless."