Big purchases that make PTA fundraising easier
Image: One adult holding a card reader and another tapping their credit card on it.
Food and drink
Freezers
Cost: ££
The most obvious reason for buying a freezer is to store ice lollies and ice creams. It’s great for Frozen Fridays, summer fairs and movie nights. No longer will you have to share profits with a local ice cream van or use up the school’s freezer space – but make sure you have a designated area to store one before you buy as they’re a bit heavy to move around!
Water boilers/catering urns
Cost: £
Having the ability to serve teas, coffees and hot chocolates at events could be a gamechanger for both you and your supporters. Plus, it might help to draw a bigger crowd at your AGM if you advertise free refreshments! Keep health and safety in mind if you’re considering getting one and include it in your risk assessments. When it’s switched on, you’ll need to make sure it’s always supervised if there are children around.
Candy floss machines
Cost: £
Candy floss is always a huge hit with the kids — and let’s be honest, with us big kids too! Making your own is much more cost effective than buying it from the shops, and we guarantee you’ll sell out in no time. If candy floss is in demand, you could always buy reusable cups and pre-make individual portions for a ready-to-go treat.
Events
Card reader machines
Cost: £
If you have the option for supporters to pay by card at your events, they’re likely to spend more money. Card readers aren’t too expensive and are really easy to use – just make sure you have a stable Wi-Fi connection.
Generators
Cost: £££
Generators can open up a world of possibilities for your events. From keeping inflatables inflated to powering up food trucks, generators are great if you regularly run big events. Storing them can be a bit of a pain as they’re quite bulky, plus you’ll need to consider health and safety and get them tested regularly, but if you have the need for one, it’s well worth it.
Marquees
Cost: £££
Rain is the sworn enemy of every PTA. By getting a marquee or gazebo, you have a wonderful back-up plan if the heavens decide to open, and you won’t have to cancel every outdoor event at the first sign of a downpour. It’s also great if it’s hot and your supporters need a break from the glaring sun, and as a First Aid station for events like colour runs. Once again, storage is the biggest downside to a marquee, but they’re not too bulky once dismantled. Hopefully you’ll remember how to put it back up again when you need it!
Entertainment
Disco lights
Cost: ££
Bring the party atmosphere to every event with an array of disco lights! Of course they’re ideal for discos, but you could also add a groovy feel to fairs, karaoke nights, fireworks displays or even a jazzy quiz! Keep health and safety in mind when using them and add them to your risk assessments. Also get them PAT tested regularly to make sure they’re in good working order.
Bubble machines
Cost: £
What is it about bubbles that kids love so much?! While it is not a necessity, bubble machines are likely to draw the young’uns and get them excited for your event. Just make sure you source your bubble solution from a reputable seller and never make your own.
Inflatables
Cost £££
While buying inflatables can be a bit expensive, it’s totally worth it if it’s a big draw for your school community. Make sure you purchase your inflatables from a reputable seller and they’re PIPA-tested each year. You also need to make sure to have enough volunteers and First Aiders whenever you use them and are strict with your health and safety and risk assessments.
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