Twinkl works with schools to boost fundraising ahead of Bears of Sheffield Trail

The trail, which has been rescheduled from 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, is set to be even bigger and better whilst following guidelines to ensure it is safe to be enjoyed by all.

The educational publisher has created resources for all schools taking part to download and use, as well as providing design support for a select number of participating schools, helping to bring to life 100 little bears for the trail next month.

Each school which has signed up to the project has been tasked with raising £750 for their bear and this is where Twinkl come in.

Twinkl is thrilled to be supporting schools by offering free specially-made educational resources, created in-house by professional designers and teachers. The materials help teachers and children throughout the project, with activities to help their fundraising, fun classroom activities like making bear masks, as well as help designing the bear itself from the initial concept to adding the finishing touches.

Twinkl’s reading education pack features a range of engaging information and fundraising resources, which not only showcase the work and importance of The Children's Hospital Charity, but will also help raise lots of money for the Cancer and Leukaemia ward at Sheffield Children’s. So far, the 100 schools, colleges and nurseries taking part have raised over £70,000.

Those requiring extra help or inspiration for the design of their bear have had the opportunity to be visited by professional artists and qualified teachers from Twinkl, the creative team behind the company's globally renowned resources and books.

Jonathan Seaton, co-founder and CEO of Twinkl, said: “We are absolutely delighted to be the Official Education Partner of the Bears of Sheffield. Not only will it bring together the wonderful community we have in the city, but the money raised will transform the Cancer and Leukaemia ward, which will help make a vital difference to children here and across the UK.”

The Children’s Hospital Charity are currently fundraising to transform the ward’s facilities and building work began last month.

As well as a larger, brighter space, there will be a bigger and better playroom situated in the heart of the ward. It will maximise the view of Weston Park, making patients feel connected to the outside whilst they are getting better. There will also be improved spaces for parents to stay with their children.

Jonathan continues, “We are also excited to be working with schools throughout the process. We hope that the resources and help from our illustrators will encourage schools across Sheffield to get involved with the campaign and support such a worthwhile cause.”

Cheryl Davidson, events fundraising manager at The Children’s Hospital Charity, said: “I’m very pleased to be able say Twinkl will be helping schools. For some schools decorating a bear will be second nature, but for others they might need a bit of encouragement. We want every school to feel they have the support and guidance they need to not only decorate a beautiful bear but to enjoy the process and take away a new set of skills.

“As much as the bears are about raising money for charity, they’re also about giving schools the opportunity to work together as a team, develop their knowledge and skills and have a great time in the process.”

To find out more about the Bears of Sheffield and how the trail will support Sheffield Children’s, visit www.bearsofsheffield.com