Heathfield schools are set to receive new outdoor seating after a local Tesco store donated £440 to the school's parent-teacher association.

Friends of Heathfield Schools' Partnership (FOHSP) received the donation from Tesco Twickenham on Mogden Lane following a year-long partnership supporting fundraising events and activities for pupils.

The money will help fund new, long-lasting composite seating across the school's playgrounds.

This autumn term, three backless benches will be installed in the reception playground, while two curved benches will be added to the Junior playground.

The partnership has been supported by Hira Parmer, Tesco Twickenham's Community Champion, who has worked with the PTA to understand its priorities and identify ways the supermarket can support the school community.

FOHSP was established in September 2025 and has raised more than £10,000 during its first year.

The money has helped fund a range of activities and experiences for pupils, including dance workshops, hatching ducklings, the Year 6 leavers' disco and a visit from Santa Claus at Christmas.

Vanessa Thornton, Vice-Chair of Friends of Heathfield Schools' Partnership, said: "For a new PTA, having a partnership with a local business has been invaluable.

"It's not just about the generous donations - it's about having someone who genuinely wants to get involved and help us make a difference."

Helen Child, Co-Headteacher of Heathfield Infant and Junior School, said the PTA's fundraising had helped bring parents, teachers and pupils together.

She added: "Thank you so much – the donations have supported a number of PTA events throughout the year.

"It was brilliant to host a parent teacher quiz night, even if the teachers' table did rather embarrassingly finish last!

"Events like these bring people together and raise funds that allow us to do really special things for our students.

"The money donated today will go towards our benches, which our children will really enjoy – nice and relaxing in the afternoon when they're outside."

Hira Parmer, Community Coordinator from Tesco Twickenham, said the supermarket was "delighted" that its donation would contribute towards something pupils could use for years to come.

"We've loved supporting Heathfield over the past year," she said.

"Whether it's helping with fairs, supplying donations or supporting fundraising events, it's been a pleasure to work with such a dedicated group of parents, staff and pupils."

The partnership between Tesco and Heathfield is set to continue this autumn, with the supermarket supporting two Heathfield dads taking part in the Cabbage Patch 10-mile race to raise money for the PTA.

Jonny and Clyde have already raised almost £500 and are aiming to reach £1,000, with the money set to contribute towards the new bench campaign.

FOHSP is a volunteer-led parent-teacher association supporting Heathfield Schools and the wider community.

The organisation brings together parents, carers, teachers and local residents to raise funds, create enriching experiences for pupils and help improve school facilities and outdoor spaces.

The PTA welcomes support from volunteers, local businesses and community members. For more information, contact [email protected].

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