Pupils and staff across five Norwich schools embraced vibrant themes, spotty outbreaks, and a passion for giving, all in aid of the annual BBC Children in Need Appeal.

Arden Grove Primary, Firside Junior, Garrick Green Infant, Kinsale Infant, and Lodge Lane Infant schools, which are all part of the Wensum Trust, united for the annual fundraising drive, putting the focus on creativity and community responsibility.

“Our children are always super keen to take part in anything fun and creative”

At Kinsale Infant School in Hellesdon, the school council came up with ‘Challenge yourself to go crazy in colour’ – which saw bright clothes, neon socks and colourful hair all on the agenda. The school hopes to have raised around £100.

“As a school we are always looking at how we can support both local and national fundraising efforts,” said Office Manager Marie Clarke. “Our children are always super keen to take part in anything fun and creative that also brings awareness and much needed funds to worthwhile causes like Children in Need.”

She added: “Our school council takes great pride in coming up with ideas for the theme and we have loved seeing our school glow with colour.”

“It helps children feel that they can make a real difference in the world”

Meanwhile there was an outbreak of spots among children at a Lodge Lane Infant School – but there was no need to worry.

Pupils all arrived covered in spots to help raise around £150 for the charity and had a great time while fundraising.

Sarah Spears, Head of School, said: “It is really important for our very young children to take part in events like Children in Need so that they begin to understand that not everyone has the same opportunities.

“It links into one of our school values of kindness, and helps children feel that they can make a real difference in the world. 

“They also really enjoy the chance to dress differently for school and be part of something bigger than themselves.”

The enthusiasm shown by Kinsale and Lodge Lane was mirrored across the Wensum Trust. 

Pupils at Arden Grove Primary, Firside Junior, and Garrick Green Infants also participated in a range of non-uniform days, fun activities, and themed events, contributing to the Trust’s collective mission. 

The money raised across the Wensum Trust schools will help fund essential projects supporting vulnerable children and young people across the UK.

“Kindness is firmly embedded in our schools”

“It’s truly inspiring to see how passionately our school communities, led by the students themselves, engage with charity work like Children in Need,” said Wensum Trust CEO, Daniel Thrower. “The creativity on display this week demonstrates that kindness is firmly embedded in our schools, and we are incredibly proud of the efforts of all our pupils and families.”

The Wensum Trust is currently awaiting final figures from all participating schools and expects to announce a fantastic collective fundraising total next week.