How to Fundraise with Fireworks: A Guide for Schools

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How to Fundraise with Fireworks: A Guide for Schools

Firework displays are a much-loved tradition in the UK, bringing communities together to enjoy an evening of colour, sparkle, and celebration. For schools and PTAs, they can also be a fantastic way to raise vital funds while creating memories for pupils, families, and the wider community.

Of course, organising a firework event takes careful planning. Safety, logistics, and legal requirements all play a part in ensuring everything runs smoothly. To help, we’ve put together some key points to consider when planning a firework fundraiser for your school.

Licences and Insurance

Before planning anything else, check what licences and insurances you’ll need. Depending on the scale of your event, costs can vary, and applications may take time to process. It’s essential to get this step sorted early.

Health & Safety First

Fireworks are exciting, but they also come with risks. Make sure your event complies with the required health and safety standards:

Have enough trained marshals to manage the crowd and event safely.
Equip your volunteers with high-visibility jackets and, ideally, radios to stay in contact.
Establish a clear safety perimeter around the fireworks area.

If you’re unsure, many professional firework display companies can provide a complete package, including setup, launch, and safety measures.

Volunteers and Support

A successful firework night relies on teamwork. Recruit plenty of volunteers well in advance to help with ticketing, stewarding, refreshments, and tidying up afterwards.

Choosing the Right Location

Most schools have fields large enough for a display, but it’s important to check size and safety requirements. If your school grounds aren’t suitable, look into hiring a nearby community field or local venue.

Fireworks and Bonfires

Decide whether to hire a professional company or purchase fireworks to run the display yourselves (keeping in mind stricter regulations for volunteers). If you’re including a bonfire, make sure it’s covered under your insurance and safety plan. Many schools ask parents and staff to donate wood or materials to keep costs down.

Picking the Date

Check for clashes with other local firework nights. Choosing a date that avoids direct competition can help you attract more families and raise more funds.

Food and Drink Stalls

Refreshments are always popular and a great way to boost your fundraising total. Hot drinks and snacks are perfect for chilly autumn evenings, while cold drinks and sweet treats appeal to children.

Final Thoughts

Hosting a firework display may take extra planning and organisation, but the rewards can be incredible—bringing your school community together, creating a fun evening for families, and raising funds to support new projects.

Good luck planning your event!

For even more inspiration, download our free PTA Fundraising Pack, packed with tried-and-tested fundraising ideas plus a handy checklist to keep your event on track.

Able Canopies Ltd. design, manufacture and install commercial grade canopies, shade sails, awnings and shelters across the UK. We specialise in servicing the education, leisure, healthcare and retail sectors and have extensive experience working with schools, councils, architects and contracting firms.
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