Swindon pupils celebrate the history of Children in Need

Lawn Manor Academy pupils have been celebrating acts of kindness while learning more about the history and background of Children in Need.

During the week leading up to Children in Need, Lawn Manor Academy students learned why the national fundraiser still plays an important in helping young people who may be struggling with mental health.

School activities included watching inspirational videos of celebrities such as singer-songwriter Ella Henderson and fitness coach Joe Wicks MBE talking about their personal experiences of coping with mental health issues.

Caireen Young, head of pupil development and character at Lawn Manor Academy, said pupils have explored how Children in Need benefits so many of us across many communities, and how what they can do to help each other.

She said: “This fits in beautifully with Anti Bullying Week, and our theme to be kind to one another.

“We’re spending Children in Need day to raise money for a great charity, but also to celebrate acts of kindness. Just one kind gesture almost inevitably leads to another, and smiles and laughter can be infectious, which benefit us all.”

Staff and pupils at Lawn Manor Academy, which is part of the Royal Wootton Bassett Academy Trust, could pay a small fee to come to school in fancy dress or in non-school uniform, and pupils of the Connect group and Key Stage 4 Leisure and Tourism class washed staff cars for £5 a vehicle.

There was also an inter-house competition for the best fancy dress by a member of staff.