Kids from Fame play a part

Pupils at Churchfields School in Walcot left their school uniforms at home for a unique fundraising event.

More than 800 pupils came to school dressed in legwarmers and leotards in homage to the hit musical Fame, which finished its sell out run at the school this week.

The musical, which was also an Oscar winning film and hit television show, depicts life in a performing arts school in the 1980s.

Pupils all made a donation of up to £1 to take part. Joe Davidson, 13, of Broome Manor, said: "I'm wearing baggy trousers, my trainers and a Quicksilver T-shirt. It's much more relaxed around school today. I made a donation of 60p and I've found out a bit about the cancer appeal. It is worth supporting."

James Bolt, 13, of the Lawns, said: "I'm having a good time today, everyone is looking forward to the end of term. I think it's a good idea because everyone is more comfortable and we've got the chance to make a donation to a good charity."

Headteacher Steve Flavin said the event was a lot of fun but had a serious message about community involvement.

"Education is about more than academic study, it is about developing a sense in students that they are a part of society and can contribute to its improvement," he said.

"Our pupils will hear about the work of Macmillan cancer nurses but it is another thing for them to learn about it in a lesson.

"It is even better for them to take an active part in the appeal, then see what they have done and understand they played their part."

Churchfields is currently appealing against the loss of its status as a performing arts college. Its production of Fame involved 67 pupils on stage and a further 25 helping with production and backstage.

Dance teacher Russell Langdown said: "The production was fantastic. It became the most successful production we have ever worked on and today is a great highlight."

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