Partnering with Tonbridge Grammar School | News

At Hospice in the Weald, we rely on the generosity of our local community to raise over £9 million every year. We know that strong, meaningful partnerships are key – and we especially value opportunities to work in new and creative ways with our supporters.

This summer, we were delighted to be invited to take part in Tonbridge Grammar School’s Interdisciplinary Unit – a week-long, ‘Apprentice’-style challenge for Year 8 students. As one of the school’s chosen charities, we worked with students from Debney House who were set a unique brief: to develop a stop motion film and design a t-shirt and tote bag to promote our regular giving scheme.

Straight to business

From the outset, the students showed real energy, empathy and curiosity. When our Fundraising team visited at the start of the week to present the challenge, we spoke about what regular giving means to the Hospice – how it helps fund care for people living with life-limiting illnesses, and how ongoing support helps families through some of the most difficult times in their lives.

Throughout the week, the students tackled the challenge with thought and creativity. Working in small teams, they explored how design can do more than just look good – it can tell a story, speak to people’s values, and encourage long-term support. They considered how to engage different audiences, and how to express the themes of compassion, community and connection through their work.

Pitching time...

At the end of the project, Fundraising team members Sarah Bowes and Gemma Hill were invited to help judge the students’ final pitches. Each group presented their ideas with confidence, explaining the thinking behind their designs and how they reflected the Hospice’s brief. Every pitch had its own strengths – from bold, eye-catching visuals to clever use of animation and storytelling. Choosing a winner was no easy task! What really stood out was the maturity, teamwork and care that went into each presentation.

“We are thrilled to be one of Tonbridge Grammar School’s chosen charities, and to be building a long-term relationship with the students of Debney House as well as the school’s staff. The week-long challenge was a great reminder that the younger generation has a powerful voice when given the opportunity to use it. Thank you to the students and staff involved in the project. Your efforts have made a real difference.” Sarah Bowes, Head of Public Fundraising

We’re also pleased to share that the school has decided to produce a limited run of the student-designed tote bags. These will be available for students and their families to buy, with 50% of the proceeds being donated to Hospice in the Weald. It’s a brilliant way to carry the impact of the project forward and continue the connection between the school and the families we care for.

Get your school involved

Fundraising by schools plays a vital role in supporting essential hospice care. If your school would like to get involved, contact Kerry Berry, Relationship Fundraising Executive, at fundraising@hospiceintheweald.org.uk or call 01892 820533.