Friends of Grayrigg School

Friends of Grayrigg School (FOGS) really are just that – friends. We’re a welcoming group of parents, carers and community members who work together to support Grayrigg C of E School and enrich the children’s experience.

In 2018, as the school celebrated 200 years at the heart of our close-knit community, FOGS took on an ambitious challenge. Through the “Grayrigg 200 for 200” campaign, we helped raise vital funds towards the school’s expansion. One of our proudest achievements has been contributing to two additional classrooms — helping to future-proof the school for our growing number of pupils.

Today, FOGS continues to organise fundraising events, social gatherings and community activities throughout the year. The money raised goes directly back into school life — supporting resources, equipment and special experiences that make a real difference to our children.

Getting involved is easy. There’s no right or wrong way to take part, and no expectation to attend every meeting. Whether you can help at a single event, share an idea, offer a skill or get more involved behind the scenes, every contribution is valued.

FOGS isn’t just about fundraising — it’s about friendship, community and creating memorable experiences for our children. We’re always open to new ideas and new faces.

Together, we help keep Grayrigg School thriving at the heart of our community.

Our current committee members are Charlotte Iniff, Diane Pinder, Kay-Leigh Crabtree and Sally Seddon.

Headteacher Kirsty Cooper commented “I never fail to be amazed by the way the children at Grayrigg celebrate and care for each other, they are the best human beings I have ever met - but I am blown away and humbled by the parental and community support for our school. We’ve been here for 200 years but I have a feeling 2018 may be the best year yet!”

There is no right or wrong way to get involved - all support is appreciated and FOGS are always open to new ideas. If you can’t attend the meetings that’s fine. Let one of the team know if there is an event you would like to help with or an idea you have. They don’t always have to be about fundraising - FOGS are always looking for ways to get parents together and for new experiences they can provide for the children.

A word from the Chair of FOGS: Sarah Wilson

As Chair of Friends of Grayrigg School since January 2025, I’m proud to be part of such a supportive and community-spirited group. FOGS plays an important role in enhancing life at Grayrigg C of E School — not just through fundraising, but by bringing families together and creating opportunities that enrich our children’s school experience.

There’s no expectation to commit huge amounts of time — every idea, every hour and every bit of support makes a difference. Whether you’re new to the school or have been part of the community for years, we’d love you to get involved in whatever way suits you.

If you’d like to find out more, share an idea or offer to help, please get in touch at fogs@grayrigg.cumbria.sch.uk or via or via Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/FOGS200/

You can also support us through Give as you Live: https://donate.giveasyoulive.com/donate?cid=147063… Or while you shop https://www.giveasyoulive.com/charity/friends-of-g…

Charlotte Iniff

Chair, Friends of Grayrigg School