When the rain comes, so do the umbrellas – not outside in the playground, but inside Year 3’s classroom.
Brandlehow Primary School’s roof is failing. Water drips through the ceiling during storms, damp creeps through wooden beams, and this summer one downpour sent flooding across the corridors. The Grade II-listed building’s distinctive flat roof – a signature of architect Ernő Goldfinger’s bold 1950s design – has simply worn out after seven decades.
Now parents are racing against winter to fix it – and they need the community’s help to raise £20,000.
A £300,000 problem
The full repair bill tops £300,000. Wandsworth Council has agreed to cover around 80% of the cost, but as a state-funded school, Brandlehow must find the rest itself. Work has already started, making the fundraising deadline urgent as autumn storms roll in.
The Parent-Teacher Association hasn’t wasted time. Their “Raise the Roof” campaign has already pulled in £1,750, with parents getting creative at every turn. One family set up a lemonade stand over summer. Estate agents have put up fundraising boards. Classes are competing in sponsored challenges. Some parents have even set up standing orders of £5 a month – small amounts adding up to real impact.
“We’re all hands on deck,” said Lindsay Philo from the PTA. “Parents are setting up standing orders, planning Christmas tree sales and carol events, and reaching out to local businesses and architect firms for support.”
Architectural heritage
What makes this appeal especially significant is the building itself. Brandlehow was Goldfinger’s first school project – a rare example of the modernist architect’s work in education. Better known for Trellick Tower and Balfron Tower, Goldfinger designed Brandlehow with what he called “human-centred” principles, combining light, space and accessibility.
Today, Brandlehow is recognised not only for its architecture but for its role as an inclusive, community-focused primary with a strong reputation for SEND provision and diversity.
The campaign has captured attention on social media, including a video of pupils holding umbrellas indoors to highlight the leaks. The PTA hopes to build on that momentum with upcoming fundraising events through autumn and winter.
“Every pound raised takes us a step closer to safeguarding our classrooms and preserving a piece of architectural heritage,” the PTA said.
How to help
Donations of any size are welcome — some parents are already giving £5 a month through standing orders. The PTA is also seeking local business sponsorship and in-kind support from architect and construction firms.
You can donate online or contact the PTA at brandlehowpta@gmail.com.
Follow the campaign on Instagram: @raisetheroofbrandlehow.
