Welcome
A warm welcome from the Friends of Ipswich School (FOIS).
Every family automatically becomes part of Friends when they join Ipswich School — whether at The Lodge Nursery, Prep, or Senior School. FOIS brings pupils, parents, families, and staff together to support and celebrate our school community.
Our Aims
FOIS exists to:
Create social opportunities for families to connect
Offer practical support across the school
Raise funds to benefit pupils and the wider community
How We’re Organised
Our committee is made up of parents, former parents, and school representatives. We meet four times a year and work closely with the Headmaster, Senior Management Team, Prep Head, teaching staff, and the Development Office.
Key roles include Chair, Treasurer, and Secretary, supported by Shop Coordinators, Social Media Leads, and Prep Leads. We have a strong and friendly committee representing all year groups and are always keen to welcome new members — please get in touch if you would like to be involved.
What We Do
| Practical Support |
FOIS funds the “extras” that make a real difference to school life — from wet-weather gear and playground equipment in Prep to basketball hoops and table tennis tables in Senior School. Each year, every pupil receives a House T-shirt funded by FOIS. We also support Year 13 leavers with their prom, yearbook, lunch, and hoodies, helping to ensure all pupils can take part. |
| Fundraising and Social Events |
Our fundraising focuses on enjoyable, inclusive events for families, including:
We are also happy to contribute financially to year-group gatherings such as coffee mornings, pub evenings, and family walks. If you have an idea for an event, we would love to hear from you. |
| Second-hand Uniform and Sports Kit |
Our popular second-hand shop at Anglesea Heights (Ivry Street) is volunteer-run and open throughout the year, offering a sustainable way to buy and sell school uniform and sports kit. Sale dates are shared via Facebook, Instagram, and IS Post emails and are usually held on Saturday mornings. We also look for opportunities to rehome obsolete kit, including through partnerships with schools overseas. |
| Connections and Support |
| FOIS helps families stay connected through year-group WhatsApp groups — ideal for sharing information, arranging meet-ups, and building community. If your year group does not yet have a WhatsApp group, we can offer advice on how to set one up. |
Get Involved
There are many ways to take part: