A Ryedale school aims to raise money for a new minibus.

Parents and volunteers at Welburn Hall School, near Kirkbymoorside, are working to fund the new vehicle which will help take the students on day trips to sporting and community activities and to work experience programmes.

The school is for children aged eight to 19 with special educational needs.

Fundraising events for the minibus have raised just under £400 so far and have included a virtual balloon race and a raffle at NY500 café in Pickering.

The school have also received a number of donations from donors known as ‘Friends of the School’ which have been put towards the minibus fund, along with new play equipment for the pupils.

This new play equipment is set to be revealed in the coming months, with a school open day along side to raise funds for the minibus.

A date is yet to be revealed but will be announced on Welburn Hall School’s Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/Welburn-Hall-School-147815651924435/

Currently, the school use a minibus which has been described as 10-years-old and “run down.”

Hayley Harrison-Berry from the Welburn Hall Home School Association (HSA) said a new vehicle is needed.

She explained that the HSA want to work with local businesses to help fundraise for the school.

Hayley’s daughter Lily, 8, also attends Welburn Hall School.

She said: “For children at Welburn Hall School like my daughter Lily, who use the minibus for day trips and trips into the community to help with their social skills, we couldn’t be more appreciative of these donations.

“We want to raise as much money as possible for the school.”

Evette Dadswell, chair of the Welburn Hall HSA, said: “We have a fantastic team and love doing events to raise money for the children to enjoy like the new play equipment we are getting installed in September, we are currently planning an official open day for the play equipment.

“I'd like to thank our members of the HSA for all their hard work and commitment.”

Cath McGill, treasurer of the Welburn Hall HSA, said:

“The school is a very special place and the support of everyone involved in the HSA is valued. 

“Fund raising opportunities have been severely impacted by the Covid pandemic.

“If you would like to support us in any way, we would welcome new Friends of the School.”

To become a member of the Friends of the School and to support Welburn Hall School and their minibus fundraiser get in touch with the school on 01751 431218 or email: admin@welburn-hall.n-yorks.sch.uk