The pupils at Holsworthy CofE Primary held a very special cake sale on Monday afternoon to raise money for the Ukraine Humanitarian Appeal (organised by the Disasters Emergency Committee).

Every child is aware of the crisis and is concerned, especially about the children who are caught up, displaced and fighting for their survival. And what better way to encourage people to help than through cake?

They chose to support the Ukraine Humanitarian Appeal as it aims to provide essential supplies to all those affected by the conflict. There is a desperate need for shelter, water and food, and the pupils of the school were determined to do something to help. 

Jake in Year 6 said: “I’m concerned because millions of people have fled Ukraine already. People are waking up to air-raid sirens and life must be horrible for them. When I heard that hospitals, nurseries and schools have been bombed, I wanted to do something about it. I collected people’s hopes and prayers to send to those caught up in this horrific conflict. 

“We wanted to make everyone aware of what is happening and get them involved in some way. So, the cake sale was a great way to raise money for the Emergency Disasters Committee. We just hope it makes a difference and that our donations help in some way.”

Josephine and Elsie of Year 4, added: “We think what is happening in Ukraine is a disgrace. People must be feeling so sad and afraid. This is a conflict that affects children, mums and dads. If that happened to my family I would feel upset and terrified. The cake sale was to raise money for things that people in Ukraine need, like food, blankets and medicines.”

Proud teacher Nick Younger said the school felt it was important to be open about what was happening in Ukraine. They have been so impressed with how caring and involved the pupils have become with this fundraiser. He said: “We are really open about what’s happening in the world at Holsworthy Primary. Many of us put lessons on hold so that we could talk about what’s happening in Ukraine and share our concerns about the conflict.

“Children discussed how they felt incredibly well, but, more than this, they felt they needed to do something. The idea of a cake sale came from Birch Class and quickly spread around the school. Children made posters, bunting, flags and letters to parents. The community responded in such a positive and caring way by bringing in huge amounts of cake, biscuits, cookies — even some home-made Ukrainian honey cakes. 

“I’m incredibly proud of what the children have achieved in such a short space of time. Their caring attitude, thoughtfulness and dedication to making the world a better place sums up the school’s ethos perfectly.”

The sale raised over £600!