White Court School in Essex has been selected to receive a cash donation from our Essex region.

The funding, from Essex region, was awarded to registered charity ‘The Friends of White Court School’ run by volunteers and parents to help raise funds for the children who attend the school.

The charity was chosen as part of Persimmon Homes Community Champions, an initiative that offers two charities or good causes the chance to gain funding of up to £1,000 every month.

Richard Hush, managing director of Persimmon Homes Essex, said: “Our Community Champions scheme was set up to support those who make a genuine difference to the lives of people in the local communities where we are building new homes, which The Friends of White Court School aim to do.”

Friends of White Court School try and help all year groups and all aspects of the school. They fundraise by organising and delivering events and initiatives throughout the year with support from parents, carers and school staff. Unfortunately, Covid-19 has left them unable to run much needed events to raise money for the school, all their activities have been moved online or were very restricted by the government rules.

On receiving the grant Kelly Ambrose, chair of The Friends of White Court School, said: “This is fantastic news for us and the school, and we can’t thank everyone at Persimmon Homes in Essex enough.”

“Our nursery is in desperate need of an outdoor space for children to learn as it helps staff to draw on different sensory aspects that an indoor class can simply not offer.”

“Currently the pupils have no shelter from the rain or protection from sun in the nursery area, therefore some days they are unable to use their outdoor space.”

Richard Hush added: “Outdoor learning is so important for young children, and we are delighted to learn that we are helping to fund this.

“As well as out Community Champions scheme, we have recently launched a new initiative called Building Futures aimed specifically at those working with groups under the age of 18. The initiative offers up to £1million a year and we are keen for groups to apply now.”

For more information or to apply for either scheme, visit, www.persimmonhomes.com/charity