School launches £2k appeal for special memorial to much-loved dad who brought joy to pupils
‘He made a genuine difference to the lives of so many people’
A school community has launched a fundraising drive to build a lasting outdoor memorial to a dedicated father who brought fun and laughter to pupils.
Staff and children at North Featherstone Junior and Infant School are seeking to collect £2,000 to purchase and install a substantial piece of play apparatus in honour of James Childs.
His two sons, who both attend the school, will help select the equipment to provide fellow pupils with a special setting for play.
James was a familiar face at school events, open mornings and trips.
He also dedicated his time to supporting men through difficult times as a facilitator for Andy’s Man Club.
Carly Douglass, EYFS Lead, DSL and NEU representative at the school, said: “James was an incredible person who made a genuine difference to the lives of so many people.
“Alongside being a devoted dad and wonderful supporter of our school, he was also a facilitator for Andy’s Man Club, dedicating his time to supporting men through some of their most difficult moments.
“Through his kindness, compassion and willingness to listen, James helped so many people.”
His playful personality was also a big part of what made him so loved at the school, including turning up dressed as Batman.
Carly said: “He didn’t just turn up to school events, he threw himself into them wholeheartedly.”
The school is launching its fundraising campaign with a special assembly on Friday, November 27, followed by an Elf Day on Tuesday, December 1, when children and staff will dress as elves.
A superhero-themed fundraising day is also planned for later in the school year.
Carly said: “We’re not just trying to buy a piece of playground equipment. We’re trying to create something that reflects the joy James brought to our school and something his boys can look at and feel incredibly proud of.
“I’m determined to make this happen for them, so anything that helps us get closer to our £2,000 target would mean the world.”
The school hoped families, friends and the wider community would support the appeal.
Donations can be made through the Remembering James Childs JustGiving page.