Life Matters - Full program podcast Why school fundraising committees are so stretched and Graeme Base on 40 years of Animalia
Sep 13, 2026
Kate Gilpin, a writer researching school funding, examines why parents are raising money for essentials and how this can deepen inequality. Celebrated author-illustrator Graeme Base reflects on 40 years of Animalia, its intricate artwork and respect for young readers. Linguist Daniel Midgley explores the origins of “hello” and how technology is reshaping telephone greetings.
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When Fundraising Replaces Public School Funding
- School fundraising is increasingly covering essentials such as classroom readers, playgrounds and infrastructure rather than optional extras.
- Kate Gilpin’s six-month investigation found parent groups filling gaps left by an under-resourced public education system.
How P&Cs Became Commercial Fundraisers
- P&C associations are shifting from community-building groups toward commercially focused operations that generate substantial school revenue.
- Canteens, uniform shops and after-school care increasingly fund infrastructure and other major expenses.
The Playground That Arrived Too Late
- Darren McLean described raising money for a play set so slowly that his child had only six months left to use it.
- Government community-building projects can require roughly two years of planning, funding and execution.
