Summer 2025 Newsletter
In January we celebrated Margaret’s 90th birthday and presented her with a picture book, showing the development of Margaret Junior School from its small beginnings in 2003. Sadly Margaret suffered three heart attacks in April and passed away on April 28th, on the 21st anniversary of the formal opening of the school. She leaves a proud and substantial legacy and the school have decided that June 6th (the date of her funeral) will be remembered as Margaret West Day on the school calendar.
Life in Uganda continues to be a roller coaster of news. Shortly following Margaret’s death we heard that the Chair of The PTA had died in childbirth. This was followed by news that two pupils had been killed by their guardian aunt who was desperately worried about becoming homeless. Such tragedies never seem to be far from the surface in Uganda.
The good news does, however, outnumber such tragic events. In January we were able to present the school with 8 new sewing machines and tables as a direct result of our Christmas Appeal. This was swiftly followed by the gift of two cows from the Local Government to help the school with milk for the children and animal husbandry lessons. During Education Week in June the school won through local heats to take part in National Finals of singing and dancing competitions held in Kampala. They didn’t win but it was a great achievement and 30 pupils enjoyed a memorable adventure in the capital.
At this time of year, pupils in P7 are busy revising for their Primary Leaving Examinations, which they sit in the Autumn. Last year’s cohort did very well so they have much to live up to. Their grades will determine whether they are able to go on to secondary school, though the main determinant will be funding so any help through the Bursary Fund is always much appreciated.
We had another successful garden event in June which, as well as being very enjoyable, raised £1000 Planning has already started for next year’s event.
We have welcomed Sue Oliver as a Trustee. Sue is a long-term sponsor and supporter of the Friends, as well as making excellent cakes!
FORTHCOMING SOCIAL EVENTS
October 22nd 10:00am to 12 noon Coffee Morning, 6 Underdale Road, Shrewsbury SY2 5DH
November 22nd 2025 Quiz, 7:00pm St Peter’s Church Hall, Monkmoor Road, Shrewsbury, SY2 5BE
Spring 2026 Beetle Drive, St Peter’s Church Hall, Monkmoor Road, Shrewsbury SY 25BE
June 27th 2026 Garden Party at 49 Portland Drive, Shrewsbury, SY2 5NJ. Thanks to Robert & Sarah.
Any offers of other fundraising ideas would be greatly welcomed.
Please pass this newsletter on to your friends and encourage others to become member.
“Education is the most powerful weapon you can use to change the world” Nelson Mandela
Registered Office: 2 Whitehall Terrace, Shrewsbury, SY2 5AA mail:
Website: www.margaretjuniorschool-uganda.com Registered Charity 1114202