FAQs

What is the Ferncourt Public School P&C Association School Building Fund?

The Building Fund is a special fund operated by the P&C. Donations to the building fund are tax deductable (while other donations to the P&C are not), but money raised in the building fund can only be used for construction, maintenance and improvement of the school's buildings and associated fixtures.

Does this mean no more fundraising for the year? Can we put up our feet and go home?

Not quite. The ATO doesn't give out tax deductions easily, so the money raised here has strong limitations. Money donated to the building fund can only be used for very specific building related items. If we stopped all other fundraising we would not be able to support other worthy projects like band and strings, the eco learning garden, increased learning support and contributions to school excursions. 

But also - our fundraisers are not just about raising money. More importantly they are about meeting people and making friendships! Donations to the Building Fund take some financial pressure off, allowing other events to be more social and affordable.

It's a great idea to use school building fund for fundraising!  Is there any reason why we don’t use it more often?

Money donated to the Building Fund can only be used for very specific building related items. It has been used previously for interactive whiteboards and solar panels ("Purchase a Pixel"). If all our fundraising was via the Building Fund, we wouldn't be able to fund non-building related items like band and strings, the eco learning garden, increased learning support, contributions to school excursions, etc.

What is an interactive whiteboard? Are they any good?

Wikipedia says "An interactive whiteboard (IWB), also known as interactive board, interactive display, interactive digital board or smart board, is a large interactive display board in the form factor of a whiteboard."

However, Wikipedia shouldn't be used as a primary source! Our kids and teachers report that IWBs help make our classrooms more versatile, more engaging and more immediate. Visual learning and collaboration are made much easier.

Didn't the P&C already buy interactive whiteboards for the school?

The interactive whiteboards have a lifespan of approximately 7 years, and with one installed in every classroom, we expect the school will need to replace an average of 2 each year. 

Didn't the P&C already contribute to solar panels for the school?

The school currently has a 26.1 kW solar PV system, which was funded by the school's Building Fund to reduce the school's carbon footprint and energy costs. There is potential to expand or augment the solar system if more funding is available.  

Why is the P&C funding solar panels and interactive whiteboards? Shouldn't these be covered by the Department of Education?

Unfortunately these are not currently covered by the Department of Education. The P&C regularly looks for improvements that they can contribute to, which enable the school to purchase useful resources beyond those provided by the Department of Education.

How much should I donate?

It's up to you. This is very much voluntary. Please only give if you are able. The amount donated can be changed on the payment page to any value you see fit.

Why is there a surcharge?

The P&C have chosen to use an online payment platform - with a small surcharge - because it reduces the load on volunteers to reconcile payments and issue receipts. If you are concerned by the surcharge, you can reduce your donation amount to allow for this.

Do I get a gift or prize for donating?

No. Tax deductible donations need to be gifts. Nothing of value can be given in return for the donation.

Can I share this link with family and friends?

Yes! Everyone is welcome to donate to this cause.