Pupils in penalty shoot-out with Wolfie to help other children sleep in a bed of their own this Christmas

Pupils from an independent school near Wolverhampton are putting other children before themselves this Christmas by raising money to tackle bed poverty in the city.

Months of fundraising will come together on Friday (December 8) when children from reception age to Year 9 at Birchfield School in Albrighton try to beat Wolves mascot Wolfie in a penalty shoot-out at the school.

Pupils and students have been taking part in many fundraising activities from running a cake stall, hamper raffles and tuck shops to guessing the number of sweets in the jar, sponsored cross country runs and swims, all to help children in Wolverhampton who don’t have a bed to sleep in at night.

They’ve also taken part in a competition to explain why their bed is special and why sleep matters, submitting art, models, essays and video clips, all aimed to boost the funds they can donate in time for the festive season.

All proceeds will go to the Good Night Project, a community-led partnership, which the City of Wolverhampton Council launched with ACCI and the Wolves Foundation in March.

It aims to tackle bed poverty and ensure everyone in Wolverhampton has a good night’s sleep in a suitable bed.

The term “bed poverty” is used to describe a situation where a person does not have access to a bed and where a household does not have enough income to afford necessary items.

Birchfield Headmistress, Mrs Sarah Morris:

‘It is such an important part of an all-round education that children and young people come to understand empathy with others in their community and the difference that they can make to others.

‘Our whole school community has come together for this very special project and I am immensely proud of our pupils and students.’

Leader of City of Wolverhampton Council, Councillor Stephen Simkins said:

‘It’s inspiring to see young people thinking of others in the city, especially at this time of year. I commend these pupils for the hard work they’ve done over many months to help others be able to get a good night’s sleep and fulfil their own ambitions in life.

‘Getting a good night’s sleep is essential to health and wellbeing and to get the most out of education and forge a successful path in life.

‘Please donate to the Good Night Project if you’re able this festive season and if you’re in need of help then don’t hesitate to contact them.’

Tom Warren, Senior Manager at Wolves Foundation, said:

‘We’re delighted the children chose to support the Good Night Project with their fundraiser and take on Wolfie in the penalty shootout.

‘Everyone deserves a good night’s sleep. The Good Night Project was set up to help with essential items like beds and bedding to make this a possibility.

‘For the school to take an interest in the project, and to see the children getting involved to support their community is really heartwarming and they should be very proud.’