TMS Community Raises almost £3,500 for Literacy Project

Pupils at Tockington Manor School have raised just under £3,500 for last year’s chosen charity, Teach Us Too. A cheque handover took place on Friday 3 October, following a special school assembly by charity representatives.

Funds raised for Transformational Tales

“We are so pleased to receive this donation from Tockington.” Said Trustee Chantal Bryan. “The funds will go towards supporting our Transformational Tales: Literacy for Life project, which was something very close to Jonathan’s heart.” Chantal’s son, Jonathan Bryan, founded Teach us Too in 2018 to champion the right for all children to be taught to read and write, whatever their label or diagnosis. A passionate advocate for literacy rights for children with disabilities, Jonathan was non-speaking and communicated using his eyes. Sadly, he passed away in June 2025, but the charity continues his legacy by challenging assumptions and working to ensure that all children are taught to read and write.

“Jonathan was an inspiration.” Said Headmaster Stephen Symonds. “We are enormously proud of our pupils and their families for their fundraising efforts. They have learned that their efforts can change lives, opening doors for children who are often underestimated. It has been a privilege to support Teach Us Too.”

During the assembly, the children were reminded how their fundraising will help bring literacy to pupils with complex needs. They watched videos from the Transformational Tales project and heard about the difference the charity makes. Transformational Tales is a research project, which collects and shares powerful first-hand stories about the power of literacy for children with complex needs in their own words and via their own communication devices.

The school community raised the money through a variety of events, from bake sales to runs and challenges, special activity days at school and the annual Danceathon.

Charity of the Year continues for 2025-2026 Academic Year

Tockington Manor School has also announced its new charity partner for the 2025–26 academic year. Young Bristol was founded in 1928 and is a city-wide youth charity providing clubs, outdoor activities and employment programmes to support young people aged 8–25.

“Community is at the heart of our school. This year we have supported Teach Us Too and helped shine a light on the importance of literacy for all. Looking ahead, we are excited to partner with Young Bristol and support their brilliant work empowering young people across our region.” Said Symonds.

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