At Barnard Castle School, charitable giving is a natural extension of our ethos.
Our charitable programme
We believe in developing young people of strong character—students who are compassionate, outward-looking, and committed to making a positive difference. Our charitable programme reflects our sense of community ambition, encouraging pupils to serve others locally, nationally, and globally.
Throughout the year, students are offered a wide range of opportunities to engage in fundraising, service, and community action, helping them to grow into thoughtful and responsible global citizens.
Fundraising and whole-school charity events
We have a proud history of supporting a wide variety of charities and causes through both student-led initiatives and whole-school events. In recent years, our community has raised funds for organisations such as Young Minds, Macmillan Cancer Support, Water Aid, Brain Tumour Research and OddBalls, reflecting causes that resonate strongly with our pupils and staff.
Across the school—particularly in the Prep School—students also take part in national fundraising events such as Children in Need and Red Nose Day, helping to build empathy, awareness, and a culture of generosity from an early age. Prep School have also supported charities such as Epilepsy in Action, and hosted fundraising events such as tea parties that encourage teamwork, community and compassion.
A highlight of the Michaelmas term is the whole-school Barney Bash—a high-energy run where the school’s Houses go head-to-head to see who can raise the most money. Taking place ahead of the famous Barney Run, the Barney Bash combines healthy competition, teamwork, and charitable ambition, with students encouraged to support their House and chosen causes.
We also proudly host an annual Macmillan Coffee Morning, bringing together students, staff, and families in a warm, communal setting to raise both funds and awareness.
In addition, charity fayres and fundraising days—often supported by external organisations—see pupils organising and running activities such as apple bobbing, netball shooting challenges, and creative stalls. Students frequently go above and beyond, taking on personal challenges and initiatives, including shaving their hair, to support causes they feel passionate about.
Service in the community
A cornerstone of our charitable work is our dedicated Service time on Mondays, when students actively give back to the local community. These sessions allow pupils to contribute meaningfully while developing leadership, responsibility, and social awareness.
Service activities include:
- Litter picking in the local area
- Supporting residents in local care homes
- Working with nearby primary schools
- Volunteering at local food banks
Through service, pupils learn the value of time, commitment, and collective action.
Community · Character · Ambition
Community that lasts a lifetime
Barney is a down-to-earth, inclusive community where laughter matters and friendship runs deep. From our vibrant boarding houses to the daily rhythm of school life, this is a place where everyone belongs and everyone contributes. The bonds formed here last a lifetime, and the culture of support and belonging stays with our students long after they leave.
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