Brentford Schoolboy Raises More Than £7,000
Funds new playground equipment for Our Lady & St John
The ribbon is cut for the new climbing frame at Our Lady & St John’s Primary School. Picture: Diocese of Westminster
March 20, 2026
An eight-year-old pupil at a Catholic primary school in Brentford has raised more than £7,000 to fund a new climbing frame for younger children, continuing his record of community-minded fundraising.
James “JC” Connor, a pupil at Our Lady & St John’s Primary School, raised £7,410 after hearing through the School Council that younger pupils hoped for improved playground equipment. Rather than simply passing on the request, JC decided he wanted to help make the project a reality according to the Diocese of Westminster.
With support from teachers and his family, he organised a school raffle, launched an online auction and set up a JustGiving page. Parents, friends and members of the wider community quickly rallied behind the initiative, helping him surpass the target needed to install a brand-new climbing frame. The equipment will be used for the first time this week following a ribbon-cutting ceremony at the school.
This is not the first time JC has taken the lead on charitable projects. Previous fundraising efforts have seen him support local causes and school initiatives, earning him a reputation for determination and generosity well beyond his age. Staff say his latest project reflects the values of service, compassion and community that the school encourages through Catholic Social Teaching.
“When I joined the School Council I heard younger pupils saying they wished they had a better climbing frame,” JC said. “So I decided to raise the money to make it happen. It’s really cool seeing it here now.”
Headteacher Mrs Kelliher said JC’s actions had set a powerful example to other pupils. “JC’s fundraising is a wonderful example of how our pupils live out the values we teach in school. His kindness and determination show how even the youngest members of our community can make a real difference.”
Several of JC’s classmates contributed design ideas for the new equipment, and a parent from the school community volunteered to help with surfacing work during installation. Teachers say the project became a collaborative effort that brought together pupils, families and staff.
Following the installation, JC was invited to cut the ribbon as younger pupils tried the climbing frame for the first time. The school also recognised his contribution during assembly with its ‘Disciple of Hope’ certificate, awarded to pupils who demonstrate kindness, initiative and service to others.
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