Oddfellows respond to deputy head book plea with cash boost

Updated: 10 Apr 2024

The Reading District of the Oddfellows has raised £500 for Whitley’s Geoffrey Field Junior School, after hearing from the deputy headteacher, who sought help and support in building up the school’s library.

Oddfellows members Clive Tayler and Fiona Vince; trustees of Reading District Oddfellows and Secretary Debbie Jex present Geoffrey Fields pupils with cheque for £500 towards their new library/research centre

The local friendship group rallied to raise the money for Geoffrey Field Junior School, helping to fund a library and research centre for pupils.

Dave Marks, deputy head of Geoffrey Field Junior School, said: “Reading is the absolute linchpin to learning. It gives children the key to fully access their education, empowering them to explore subjects and topics that truly interest them. This fantastic donation will go a long way in providing books and equipment for the library, in one of the most economically deprived wards of Reading.”

Debbie Jex, Secretary for the Reading District of the Oddfellows, also commented: “We’re all well aware of the cuts affecting schools all over the UK and when Dave approached us, we recognised our opportunity to do our bit to secure a quality education for local children. When we visited the school, we were so impressed by the lovely pupils and their teachers, who were only too pleased to show us around.”

This fantastic donation will go a long way in providing books and equipment for the library, in one of the most economically deprived wards of Reading. Dave Marks, Deputy Head

With over 200 years’ experience of helping its community, the Reading District of the Oddfellows understands how important a great learning environment is for people, no matter their age.

Debbie continued: “We hope this donation goes a long way in making the Junior School library a great place to learn. As a group we meet regularly for a variety of fundraising and social events, which helps our community to stay in touch, share some laughs, as well as look out for each other.”

From coffee mornings and craft sessions to lunch clubs and guest talks, the Reading District of the Oddfellows holds regular events and activities in the area.

“We’d love to welcome some new faces to our group,” added Debbie, “and we’re always running a wide range of events – some social, some fundraising, but all designed to encourage friendship and a strong sense of community. If you’d like to come along and give us a try, you’re more than welcome!”

To find out where your closest Oddfellows Branch is located, use our handy Branch finder, or give the Membership team a call on 0800 028 1810. Future events are also listed on our Events page.