BBCET school helps those close to home for Children in Need

There were beneficiaries close to home when staff and pupils at a BBCET school in Newcastle took part in this year’s Children in Need appeal.

As well as holding various fundraising challenges to support the initiative, St John Vianney Catholic Primary wanted to provide help to those in need in the neighbouring community.

“The link to the Children in Need fundraising website was sent out to parents, but this year we tried something different too,” explained Year 6 Teacher Judith Black.

“We asked for donations to the local foodbank to support our local children in need.”

Overseen by the Year 6 pupils, activities taking place in school on the day included ‘Bear-Pong’ and ‘Pin the Patch on Pudsey’, while staff and children alike arrived dressed in colourful outfits and costumes.

“BBC Children in Need is a major UK charity that funds projects supporting disadvantaged children and young people,” continued Mrs Black.

“It focuses on issues like poverty, mental health, disability, and family challenges, aiming to give every child the chance to thrive.

“For us, it’s not just about fundraising – it’s about teaching empathy, community spirit, and social responsibility.”

Other BBCET primary schools supporting Children in Need included St Catherine’s, St Columba’s, St Mary’s in Forest Hall, St Oswald’s, St Mark’s, and Star of the Sea.

“St John Vianney has a strong tradition of charitable action rooted in Catholic Social Teaching,” added Mrs Black. “The school promotes values like solidarity and helping those in need.

“Children in Need fits perfectly with this ethos, giving pupils a chance to live out their faith through action, develop empathy, and understand the importance of supporting vulnerable children.”