Raising funds for your school can feel like an uphill battle, but with the right ideas, your Parent Teacher Association can boost engagement and hit fundraising targets with ease. The key is to keep things fresh, fun, and community-focused. If you’re looking for proven, creative fundraising ideas, here are 10 that actually work.

1. Host a School Disco

A classic school disco never fails to bring in funds. Try themed events like an ‘80s throwback, neon party, or fancy dress to boost attendance and keep it fresh. Sell tickets in advance and offer extras like glow sticks and snacks for additional revenue. If you have a parent that has some DJ skills get them involved too!

2. Organise a “Rent a Venue” Fundraiser

Many PTAs don’t realise they can hire out school spaces like halls or playing fields for local events, fitness classes, or birthday parties. List your venue on Sharesy and turn unused spaces into a steady income stream for your school.

3. Plan a “Break the Rules” Day

Kids love bending the rules! Charge a small fee for students to wear crazy socks, bring a toy, or swap uniforms with a friend for the day. This simple event requires little effort but can raise significant funds. Run the rules to be broken by the head teacher beforehand!

4. Launch a Sponsored Challenge

Encourage pupils, teachers, and parents to take on a fun challenge—whether it’s a fun run, read-a-thon, dance-off, or even a silence challenge. Get participants to collect sponsorships and offer small prizes for the top fundraisers. PTA+ has a great post on this with lots of great resources. 

5. Set Up a Second-Hand Uniform Sale

Many parents are happy to buy gently used uniforms at a fraction of the retail price. Organise a sale at the start of each term and encourage donations of outgrown schoolwear. It’s a win-win for families and the PTA!

6. Run a Community Quiz Night

Parents, teachers, and local residents love a good quiz! Hire a local community venue through Sharesy, or use your own facilities if you can, this will ensure you keep costs down, and charge teams to enter. Boost profits with a raffle, bar, or food stall.

7. Host a Movie Night

Transform the school hall into a pop-up cinema with a projector and comfy seating. Sell tickets, popcorn, and drinks for extra funds. You can even host a family-friendly double feature with separate movies for younger and older kids. If you are hosting on your school premises check to see if your school has the right film licences in place. If you are hosting off site then read this blog from PTA+ on what you might need to run a movie night.

8. Try a “Grow a Pound” Challenge

Give students £1 and challenge them to grow it into more through small entrepreneurial activities—baking, crafting, or even doing chores. This teaches valuable money skills while raising funds for the PTA.

9. Organise a “Parents’ Night Out” Event

Partner with local businesses to host a wine tasting, comedy night, or dinner event for parents. Charge for entry and secure sponsorships to maximise profits. This is a great way to build community spirit while raising funds.

10. Plan a School Summer Fête

A well-planned summer fête can bring in a significant amount of money. This is usually the biggest fundraising event of a PTA event calendar. Charge for entry, set up stalls, games, and food trucks, and secure sponsorships from local businesses. Check out our blog: PTA Fundraising Ideas: Planning a School Summer Fete for more top tips on organising a summer fête.

Raising money for your school doesn’t have to be stressful. By mixing up your events and getting creative, you’ll keep parents and students engaged while boosting your PTA funds.