As part of the fundraising activities, a photo booth enabled students to have their pictures taken within a giant frame featuring the charity’s famous teddy mascot while Assistant Headteacher Rachel Bazeley-Smith braved the wet sponge stocks.

Other money-making ventures at the school included a cake stall run by Smithdon’s Year 10 and 11 ASDAN students, and a second-hand book stall and a bric-a-brac stall run by school council members from Years 10 and 11.

Activities took place during break time and lunchtime in the school hall, and were open to all staff and students at Smithdon.

Students in all year groups also donated to Children in Need by paying to come to school in non-uniform on the day, with some choosing to wear fancy dress for the occasion.

Sarah Robinson, Deputy Headteacher and organiser of the event, said: “Pre-Covid, we have always had a non-uniform day and various other activities in the past – this is the first time we have properly celebrated and supported for a while though.

“Nothing cost more than 50p, as we know money is tight, but we were working on the premise that if everyone gives a little, we can gain a lot.”

Headteacher Amanda Gibbins added: “I am so proud of how much our students got involved in the activities, and the huge donations they made, especially in these times of hardship for so many in our community.”

Total funds raised by Smithdon on the day were £817.20.