15 May 2023
Bonython Primary School P&C president Natasha Ward in the school’s P&C run uniform shop.
Volunteering runs in Natasha Ward’s family.
“My Mum was a volunteer,” Natasha said. “My Mum was in the canteen and on the P&C when I was a kid, did the fetes and all that stuff.”
Natasha is the Bonython Primary School P&C president and has been volunteering with the school P&C since 2017.
“I just started by helping out,” Natasha said. “Since 2017 I’ve been running the Mother’s Day and Father’s Day Stalls, and my involvement grew from there.
“I had the opportunity to help out, so I did. I’ve been the fundraising co-ordinator, then became vice president, and I’ve been president since 2020”
Like many volunteers in our schools, Natasha’s initial involvement was motivated by having kids at the school - Natasha has had two at Bonython Primary, one who finished last year and has moved on to high school, and another who is now in Year 5.
But her involvement was also about getting involved in her local school community, which she says has been very valuable.
“The relationships that you develop… I’ve made some amazing friends,” Natasha said. “Relationships I’ve formed across the school have been amazing.
“Supporting the teachers as well… besides the fundraising, and the helping, we’re able to get involved and help the school with extra events.
“You get to know everyone!”
National Volunteer Week is Australia’s largest annual celebration of volunteering and is being held this week. The Education Directorate recognises the significant contribution of volunteers across our school networks. Our schools are better for the involvement of P&Cs, volunteers, parents and school communities more broadly.
Natasha said that anyone considering volunteering at their school should give it a go if they can.
“Everyone can contribute in some way,” Natasha said.
“You’d don’t have to be at the school all the time. You don’t have to be involved in everything. But anything you can do will help your school – and that is great.
“The little things are important and every little bit helps!”
For more information on how you can get involved in your child’s school, you can contact your local school directly or visit our website.