There was sparkle at the school gates when Smithdon High School students swapped their uniforms for festive knitwear to raise money for Christmas Jumper Day.

All year groups at our school took part in the annual Save the Children appeal, with the aim of topping last year’s total.

“We do Christmas Jumper Day every year to raise funds for Save the Children,” said Deputy Headteacher Sarah Robinson. “Last year we raised nearly £300.”

The first Christmas Jumper Day was launched by Save the Children in December 2012, and the event has since raised £30 million to help children in 93 countries across the globe. Last year, the charity reached 41.2 million children worldwide, and supported 375,000 UK children and families.

Adding to the festive flavour at Smithdon, which is part of the West Norfolk Academies Trust, the students were also served Christmas lunches on the day, while the Year 7 cohort enjoyed activities such as Music Bingo, which was organised by Assistant Headteacher Alysha Moat.

“We feel it’s important to raise awareness and support this charity, and it also brings some festive cheer to the school, as some students and staff really go to town with lights and Christmas decorations,” added Mrs Robinson.