The Pop-up Café is back on Mondays and Wednesdays from next week. Located in Food Tech, the Café is not only a great place for pupils to grab a snack or drink, but also provides a fantastic opportunity for pupils to get involved, develop valuable skills and contribute to something that gives back to the community. The Café serves a range of snacks and drinks on Monday lunchtimes and Wednesday break – all allergy aware, with lots of healthy and lower-sugar options. Pupils in any year group can drop in, and everything is priced at pocket money prices. (Small change is essential!)

Run by Mrs Phillips and a team of keen volunteers, all proceeds go towards selected charities. Mrs Phillips explains more about the history of the Café:

“I started the Pop-up Café in and around 2018, as it is always good to give something back. It initially started off as a very small affair and has now grown substantially, with more choice and a team of volunteers. We have given to countless charities, too many to mention, but they include local, overseas, children’s and national charities. A folder of all the charities we have supported can be viewed in Food Tech, but here are just a few: NSPCC, Water Aid, Medicine without Frontiers, The Big Yellow Bus Project (helping the homeless in Cirencester), and several animal charities.

“We sell all sorts of snacks, as well as home bakes, and cater for all dietary requirements. Healthy options are on offer. Prices are pocket money levels, and all profits go straight to the charities. Last year we were raising money for Mind, Winston’s Wish, Sunflowers and The Samaritans. This year it’s Teckels, Toybox, Cheltenham Animal Shelter and The Big Issue.

“There is an emphasis not to drop litter, bring your own mug for refills and to recycle! Many of the team who volunteer are working towards a DofE award as well. They are trained to handle food with a non-touch technique, be aware of allergens and give service with a smile.

“As well as giving funds to charities, we have also supported the Ukraine war supplies appeal (clothing, toiletries etc), the Emmaus backpack appeal, supporting the homeless, and two local foodbanks.

“It really is a joy to be able to hand over funds to good causes and work along side an incredible team of young volunteers.”

Any pupils who would like to volunteer in the Café should contact Mrs Phillips.

The Pop-up Café is just one of the many extracurricular opportunities on offer – see https://strschool.co.uk/schoollife/clubs for the updated timetable.