Sarah Ferguson makes surprise visit to primary school to read new children’s book
Sarah Ferguson, Duchess of York, made a surprise visit to a Southwark primary school last week and enchanted pupils with her new children’s book.
Surrey Square Primary School in Walworth was transformed into a festive wonderland on Thursday, as The Caring Family Foundation (TCFF) hosted an event to support children in need.
The Duchess captivated the students with a reading from her children’s book, ‘Flora & Fern: Wonder in the Woods’, amidst a day of festive entertainment and nutritious lunches provided by Bill’s.
The event was part of the TCFF’s Food From the Heart Campaign, which aims to combat child poverty and food insecurity in the UK.
Around 25 per cent of students at Surrey Square Primary School live in temporary accommodation and 84 per cent belong to families facing significant economic challenges, according to the TCFF.
Matt Morden, co-head Teacher at Surrey Square Primary School said: “The children have been eagerly anticipating this magical day all week, and the joy it brings to them is truly priceless.
“As staff, we recognise the deep significance of this moment, knowing it’s an experience many of these children do not often have.”
Across the country, there are 900,000 school-age children living in poverty who miss out on free school meals, figures from the Child Poverty Action Group show.
By the end of 2025, TCFF has pledged to deliver a further million meals through its campaign, meaning that by the end of 2025, 3.5million meals will have been handed out across Britain and Brazil since 2020.
The Foundation has also promised funding to continue to support initiatives at Surrey Square Primary School throughout the year, including weekly youth clubs offering hot meals and a monthly market which serves 350 visitors from vulnerable communities.
Patricia Caring, co-founder of TCFF said: “As we step into the festive season, we are reminded of the transformative power of kindness and connection.
“It is so important to provide on-the-ground support, as part of our ongoing commitment to these children, in the hope that we can bring them moments of joy and a sense of togetherness.”
Pictured top: Sarah Ferguson, Duchess of York, serves up festive treats for schoolchildren at Surrey Square Primary School (Picture: Dave Benett)