Eastbury Community School once again raised thousands of pounds for charity last term.
The school supports the Movember campaign every year by increasing awareness of prostate and testicular cancer and raising money for the charity. As well as staff getting sponsored to grow 'mos', there were assemblies to deliver the campaign's key messages, including supporting conversation around mental health to lower the rates of suicide, especially amongst men who find it difficult to talk about their problems.
Once again, Eastbury's staff team raised the highest amount recorded by schools in the borough, with a fundraising total of £2,848.
Movember wasn't the only good cause supported by staff and students. A week of events and activities raised £2,543.28 for Children in Need, and the school continued its work with the Barking Royal British Legion to support the poppy appeal and raise important funds.
"Our pupils deserve the highest praise for all of their efforts to help others, and it is no wonder that the school has a national reputation for being kind."
David Dickson retired as Executive Headteacher at Eastbury Community School at the end of last term after over 20 years of service in Barking and Dagenham. Speaking of the school's fundraising efforts during his final week, he said: "Every day I see Eastbury pupils being kind, and every year Eastbury pupils raise thousands of pounds for charities helping local, national and global communities.
"This is why it makes me incredibly proud to have been Executive Headteacher of such an amazing school for so many years.
"Our pupils deserve the highest praise for all of their efforts to help others, and it is no wonder that the school has a national reputation for being kind."
Councillor Evelyn Carpenter, Cabinet Member for Educational Attainment and School Improvement, said: "I would like to congratulate the dedicated staff and pupils at Eastbury Community School for their work to support these worthwhile charities.
"I'd especially like to offer my thanks to David Dickson for the tremendous difference he has made to the education and opportunities for thousands of young people who attended Eastbury Community School."