We have Included here the Ivanhoe School Press Release.

We have been absolutely overwhelmed with the donations from our students and staff and not forgetting the Ashby Community for the support for the Ivanhoe School Christmas Appeal for Leicestershire Charity Toys on the Table. This long running charity has been giving gifts to children who would otherwise not receive anything for Christmas for over 40 years. The spectacular amount of toys and gifts donated will make a huge difference to the lives of young people in Leicestershire.

The charity appeal was suggested by a member of support staff, Mrs Deacon, who has been a long-term supporter of Toys on the Table, and she realised that there was no local collection point in this area. Mrs Deacon said, ‘I have supported this charity for many years. I have two sons who are so lucky with the gifts they receive from family and friends, and it breaks my heart to think there may be children who receive nothing. That’s why our family buys gifts throughout the year for this collection.’

Our student ambassadors did a great job of spreading the word to local businesses as they set out on foot round town to deliver leaflets and engage with the community.  It was fantastic to see one of our local football teams, Marlborough Rovers (who many of our students play for)  donating gifts instead of doing Secret Santa this year. One of our Year 10 students, Thalia has even been spending her pocket money on gifts and has asked for gifts to donate on her own Christmas list this year. Headteacher Mrs Allford said,  “We know times are tough for families at the moment, and we had no idea how many donations we would get when the appeal was launched. However, I don’t think there is a bigger demonstration of how all of our students embrace the ‘be kind’ element of our Ivanhoe Way School code than this.” The school hopes to continue collecting for the local area next year.