New books for Falconbrook Primary School Library

My name is Sarah Northey and on Monday 10 March I am planning to swim 200 lengths - 5km - to raise £2,000 for new reading books for Falconbrook Primary School. I swim a couple of times a week - normally just 40 lengths - so this will be a signficant challenge. I'm hoping to complete the distance within 2 hours.

Emanuel School in Clapham has generously offered the use of its pool and is providing a lifeguard!

For the past three years, I have volunteered at Falconbrook Primary School, reading with Year 5 and 6 pupils every week. Seeing their progress and enthusiasm for reading is incredibly rewarding. However, the school's book collection is outdated, lacks diversity, and does not reflect the experiences or interests of the current pupils.

Falconbrook set within the York Road Estate in Battersea, is known for its diverse school community, with many pupils not speaking English as a first language. There is a high percentage of disadvantaged pupils meaning that many of the children do not have books at home which makes the library an even more valued resource. The library has just been repainted and carpeted thanks to the generosity of parents at St Thomas' School - all it needs now is some new books!

This is a school which is making a real difference to its pupils. With your support the school will be able to achieve even more.