Behind the Scenes – The Vital Role of SparkFish Trustees
At the heart of SparkFish is a passionate team delivering creative, compassionate support to children and young people across our local schools. But behind the scenes, there’s another group playing a crucial role in making it all possible — our Trustees.
The Trustees of SparkFish are responsible for the overall management and strategic direction of the charity. They ensure we stay aligned with our charitable objectives, operate within legal guidelines, and remain financially and organisationally healthy.
Serving as a Trustee is a serious and meaningful commitment. Each Trustee sits on our Management Committee and takes collective responsibility for making sure SparkFish remains well-run, solvent, and true to its mission. This includes oversight of key areas such as:
- Financial planning and risk management
- Safeguarding of children and young people
- Compliance with charity law and the SparkFish Trust Deed
But it’s not all policy and paperwork. Trustees are also expected to engage with the life of SparkFish, supporting the work in prayer, upholding our Christian values, and promoting SparkFish in churches and schools.
They attend regular meetings, keep up to date with the charity’s activities via newsletters and the website, and are encouraged to visit at least once a year to experience our work with young people first-hand. Many though have a much more active role and can be seen playing Pontius Pilate at an Easter Experience event or reading as a journey guide at a Christmas journey. Trustees also play a practical role in key events, such as our Annual Service, helping things run smoothly behind the scenes.
Being a SparkFish Trustee is both a legal responsibility and a spiritual commitment — a unique blend of governance, faith, and hands-on support. Their dedication ensures that SparkFish continues to grow, adapt, and serve children and young people with excellence and care.
We’re deeply grateful for the wisdom, time, and energy our Trustees give. They are an essential part of what keeps SparkFish thriving.
Working as an administrator at SparkFish for just one day a week might sound like a quiet role — but my day is usually packed from start to finish. In a small team, every role counts, and I take pride in keeping things running smoothly behind the scenes so others can focus on making a difference.
On my one day in the office, I take care of the essentials: ordering stationary so everyone has the tools they need, paying bills and making sure expenses are processed quickly and accurately. I also keep on top of recording staff holidays, taking minutes in meetings, and handling a variety of general office tasks that keep everything organised.
But it’s not all spreadsheets and payments. One of the best parts of my role is the people. I get to work with some brilliant volunteers, help with DBS checks, and often meet members of the public at events. It’s a lovely mix of admin and community, and it reminds me why we do what we do.
It can be a challenge fitting so much into one day a week, but with good planning (and plenty of lists), it works. It’s rewarding to know that even in a small amount of time, I’m contributing to something that has a real impact.
At SparkFish, we’re passionate about supporting children and young people in schools across Reigate, Redhill, Merstham and Horley. We offer a range of engaging and thought-provoking experiences designed to help students explore faith, identity, relationships, and wellbeing. These activities include events like The Christmas Journey and The Easter Experience, as well as Think Spaces, Mentoring, Workshops, Lunch Clubs, and Christian Unions.
Here’s a closer look at two of the key things we do:
- 🧠 Think – Creating Space to Breathe and Reflect
Think Spaces are one of our most valued offerings. SparkFish partners with schools to create peaceful, reflective environments where students can step away from the noise of everyday school life and take time for their mental, emotional, and spiritual wellbeing.
For several days, a classroom is transformed into a calming, creative space with interactive zones. Pupils are invited to draw, write, create, relax, play, or pray — all at their own pace.
Through activities focused on self-esteem, kindness, empathy, and emotional awareness, young people begin to explore who they are and how they relate to others.
Think Spaces often spark deep questions about life, meaning, and identity, while giving students space to breathe, reflect, and reset. Every Think Space is tailored to suit the ethos and needs of each school — and students consistently respond with curiosity, openness, and warmth.
- 🙌 Christian Union – Faith, Friendship, and Big Questions
SparkFish also runs Christian Unions (CUs) in local secondary schools — regular gatherings where students explore Christian faith in a welcoming, relaxed setting.
Each CU is different, but they often include Bible studies, discussions on faith and real-life issues, opportunities to pray together, and space to ask honest questions. There are usually some fun activities too — from games and snacks to social events or guest speakers.
Christian Unions create a sense of belonging and purpose. They connect students from different churches and backgrounds, helping them build friendships and grow in confidence as they consider what they believe and how that fits into life at school — and beyond.
Whether it’s through a quiet Think Space or a lively Christian Union, SparkFish is here to offer safe, supportive, and spiritually rich experiences that help young people grow in faith, hope, and love.
To find out more about how SparkFish could support your school, visit our website or contact us at office@sparkfish.org.uk.