A SCHOOL in Andover has been celebrating the fundraising efforts of one of its students who smashed their fundraising target.

Year 4 pupil Eliza Stone, from Rookwood School, recently embarked on a remarkable fundraising effort to support the 'Twin a Toilet' campaign.

Inspired by Year 4’s recent topic on Africa, Eliza was curious to learn about the living conditions of communities living in deprived areas and began exploring possible ways she could help them. 

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Having learnt about the Toilet Twinning initiative, Eliza took it upon herself to raise funds for the construction of safe and hygienic toilets in vulnerable communities. With an initial target of £60, Eliza organised a cake sale with the support of her fellow Year 4 pupils at Rookwood School, resulting in over £200 raised for the initiative.

Toilet Twinning is an initiative coordinated by the charity Tearfund that helps provide the world’s poorest communities with access to clean and sanitary facilities. By donating £60, Eliza aims to twin a school toilet with a toilet in one of these vulnerable communities. The funds raised will not only contribute to the construction of these vital facilities but also help provide fresh water taps for the chosen community.

Eliza's fundraising campaign consisted of creating eye-catching posters and delivering an assembly to the lower School, inspiring her peers to support her cause.

On May 26, Eliza and her friends from Year 4 brought in homemade cakes and sold them during break time. The overwhelming response from the school community surpassed Eliza's initial target, enabling her to make an even greater impact.

Eliza's teacher, Claire Abraham, said: "Eliza's commitment and determination are truly remarkable. She has not only raised a significant amount of money but has also educated her peers about the importance of providing basic sanitation facilities to those in need. Her initiative is an inspiration to us all."

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Eliza’s Year 4 classmates, Wyni and Anastarzia, said: “Eliza was so brave speaking in front of the whole school in order to get everyone to help Africa. We think she is amazing and it is absolutely fantastic that she raised £210!"

Eliza will be presented with a certificate of appreciation from the charity for her outstanding efforts.

The school will also proudly display a photograph of the toilet that will be constructed in Africa, twinned with the toilet located within the school's Paddocks building.