Ormiston Horizon Academy has launched a major fundraising campaign to support the development of a new state-of-the-art 3G pitch for students and the community.
The Football Foundation has identified the school as a potential site for investment but, to unlock the funding, Horizon must raise £10,000 by December 2025.
The proposed pitch will replace the current surface with a modern, all-weather facility suitable for year-round use. It will enhance the quality and reach of physical education at the academy, while creating new opportunities for grassroots sport across Stoke-on-Trent.
To help meet the fundraising target, the school is planning a series of events involving students, staff and families who are committed to the cause. A Student Fundraising Committee has also been set up to lead initiatives throughout the year, including organising a fashion show event including delicious food and drink, stalls from local businesses and exclusive discounts of up to 75% on popular High Street fashion brands such as Zara, River Island, New Look and M&S.
In September, 23 brave members of school staff will also be taking on the Yorkshire Three Peaks Challenge – a demanding 24-mile route with over 1,500 metres of ascent, to be completed within 12 hours, all with the aim of raising funds for the exciting cause.
A JustGiving page has been launched to collect donations, with the academy calling on friends, family, alumni and local businesses to get involved in any way they can to help secure the pitch for students and the community.
Andy Fitzgibbon, Principal said: “The project would be a transformative opportunity for both students and the local community. The new pitch would provide a vital space for school sport and community use, helping to raise participation and foster local pride in sports across our area.
“We’re incredibly proud to be working with the Football Foundation and it has been amazing to see our community already rally behind us to help make it a reality.”