When a child is diagnosed with cancer and starts undergoing treatment, it can be very distressing for their friends and classmates.

Fundraising can be a great way of boosting morale and giving pupils the opportunity to help children just like themselves who are unfortunate enough to be diagnosed with cancer. 

Candlelighters has, time and time again, been amazed by the dedication, effort and generosity of our patients’ classmates, teachers and parents in organising fundraising events.

Here are Candlelighters’ top 10 fundraising ideas for schools:

	Non-uniform day
	Pupils versus teachers e.g. tug of war, football match, even a dance-off!
	Weekly cake sale
	Pack shopping bags at your local supermarket
	Quiz or spelling bee
	Charity concert or theatre production
	Treasure or Easter egg hunt
	Sponsored silence
	Art exhibition
	Fancy dress party or disco (why not try a sponsored conga?)

Shout about it! Don’t forget, if you’re holding a big event or are planning to raise a large amount of money, let everybody know! We have a downloadable Candlelighters Press Form which you can fill in and send to your local newspaper. You can also download publicity materials and our logo from the Media centre, as well as ordering Candlelighters t-shirts, pens, stickers, etc – essential for any event!

Say it with pictures A picture says a thousand words, so make sure you have someone lined up to take photographs on the day. Photos are invaluable for gaining press coverage – and donations – after the event. You can also share them with your friends, family and local community by posting them on your fundraising Just Giving site and on our website's Gallery. To upload your pictures, simply email them, along with information about your event, to info@candlelighters.org.uk

Make the most of the internet Social networking sites such as Facebook, Twitter and MySpace are excellent ways to spread the word about an event. Why not set up an events page, or a fan group? That way you can update all your supporters in one easy message and encourage them to donate, donate, donate! And don’t forget to set up your own Just Giving page on Sponsorship and fundraising - how to get started.