Five Virtual Fundraising Ideas for Schools in the UK

Raising money for your local school has been a tradition that many parents, teachers and students have taken part in for generations. With the recent pandemic sweeping the globe it has made traditional fundraising methods such as bake sales, summer fetes and Christmas fairs impossible. Fortunately, there is a way to raise funds for your school online. We have put together our top virtual fundraising ideas for schools UK, so you can raise funds for your school whilst staying safe.

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Do a virtual event

Just because you can’t hold an in-person fundraising event doesn’t mean you can’t fundraise online. Why not host a zoom quiz or ask students to take part in performing an online play? Stream the event on youtube and ask for a small donation in return?

Shot of an adorable little girl and her parents using a digital tablet together on the sofa at home

Ask parent and school alumni for help

For many parents, finding a school that suits their child and makes them feel safe is something that you can’t put a price tag on. By appealing to the parents of the children who attend your school, you may find that they are willing to donate to your cause if it means keeping the school doors open.

Schools hold a special place in the hearts of all who attend them. It can be a good idea to appeal to previous students of the school and let them know that you are fundraising – especially if any of them can join virtual events, or even host their own.

Encourage students do complete a challenge and donate

Ask your students and teachers to complete a challenge and ask for donations in return. This could be a virtual half marathon, a walkathon or even a virtual bake off. The beauty of a virtual challenge is that it can be completed without breaking lockdown restrictions.

Let your local community know that you need help

Why not ask your local cafe, library or restaurant if they will let you put a poster up in their establishment to let people know that you are raising funds. Church pin boards and community halls are great places to ask if they can put up a poster of your fundraiser. Schools are a vital part of the community – if they close, many parents can’t work.

Online crowdfunding

For all of these fundraising ideas, crowdfunding on sites such as GoFundMe could work for you. It’s a safe and easy way to collect donations from your community, with an easy fundraising site to direct well-wishers to.

Here’s what others are doing

Running Lakes 3000’s for Standlake School

In October, one dad took on the three highest peaks in the Lake District to raise funds for his daughter’s school.Charlie raised more than £4,000 to put towards new outdoor activity equipment for Standlake School in Oxfordshire.

Grey Court School PA Fundraiser

The Parent Teacher Association of Grey Court School in Richmond came together online to raise funds for a new bike rack and water fountain after their usual fundraising activities were brought to a halt due covid restrictions. They have raised £1225 so far.

Team 1000 km Kids: Sheepscombe

Throughout October students at Sheepscombe school took on the challenge to cover 1000 km cumulatively in a month. They ran, cycled and walked and in exchange asked for donations towards providing music lessons for the 60 students who attend the school. They raised £4,663.

Start raising money for your school virtually

If you would like to help fundraise for a school in your local area why not set up a GoFundMe?

It couldn’t be easier to set up a fundraiser, share the link on your social media platforms and start racking up donations from supporters.

Unlike other fundraising platforms, there are no hidden fees on Gift Aid with GoFundMe.

Our experts are on hand to offer 24-hour help and advice and you can use our mobile app to check in on your fundraising progress on the move.

Start a GoFundMe