Help Me Develop Playtime at Vallis First School!

Hi, I’m Mrs Messenger, the deputy head of Vallis First School and if you know me, you know just how passionate I am about teaching, education and the belief that children learn best through play.

Since joining Vallis First School in September, it has quickly become a huge part of my life. The children, the staff, the community—there’s something truly special here. But like many old Victorian school buildings, Vallis is showing its age. Resources are stretched, and even the children see that their play spaces could be even better. As we don’t have the luxury of green fields to run through, creating a playtime filled with excitement, curiosity and exploration can be challenging.

I believe that playtime should be full of joy, imagination, and adventure—not just a break in the day, but a chance to grow, connect, and explore. That’s why I’m determined to raise money for new equipment that could completely transform their play experience.

⸻

Why a Play Equipment?

Having a variety of play equipment sparks imagination, encourages collaboration, and offers a whole new world of possibility during every break time.

For our school, this would mean a chance for our children to broaden their experience of independent play,—constructing, building, role-playing, and learning all while having fun. It’s more than just play equipment—it’s an invitation to dream.

Since COVID-19 I have had some health issues which have prevented me from training, but I am now ready to lace up my trainers again —this time not just for a personal goal, but to make a lasting difference for our fantastic children and school.

I’ve run half- marathons before in support of many amazing charities, but this time, I want to do something different—to go bigger, aim higher, and give back directly to the children I work with every day.

⸻

How You Can Help

I’m running the Live Aid marathon, Milton Keynes on 13th July 2025, to raise funds for a play equipment at Vallis First School—and I can’t do it without your help.

Every donation, no matter how small, brings us one step closer to giving these children a playtime they truly deserve.

If you can, please donate and share this campaign. Let’s create a space that encourages our children to be curious, creative, and confident.

Thank you from the bottom of my heart for you my heart ❤️