Sell-Out Show Stuns as Springwood Students Take to the Catwalk

Post-impressionist artist Vincent Van Gogh and punk icon Vivienne Westwood were among the inspirations at a Lynn school’s sell-out fashion show.

The popular annual event at Springwood High School, which was taking place for eleventh time, saw young designers exhibit their creations, while fellow students took to the catwalk to model the clothes.

Themes for 2025 included ‘Nature and Humans’ for the Year 11 GCSE students, while the BTEC students focused on ‘Nature and Sustainability’ in Year 12, and on ‘Identity’ and ‘The Bold and Unexpected’ in Year 13. There was also a Staff Collection on the theme of ‘Glamour’.

“Year 11 key items of clothing included a green bodice made out of shimmery, sheer fabric, with delicate ruffled sleeves inspired by coral reefs,” said Emma Markwell, Fashion and Textile Course Leader at Springwood, which is part of the West Norfolk Academies Trust.

“There were also two outfits inspired by human hearts and the blood system, using embroidery, red pearl beads, and laser-cut acrylic embellishments, and Oscar Isherwood’s Year 11 tailored red jacket, skirt, gloves, and red velvet train.”

Among the Year 13 students showcasing their creations, Mollie Ashby was influenced by Vivienne Westwood in the design of her satin dress, which featured flowing, sheer blue fabric, and an outsized white bow; while Charlotte McLeish showed a white satin ballet dress; and Summer Hawkes drew inspiration from Van Gogh for her sculpted dress, and blue-and-gold skirt and top.

“The Year 13 collections were pushing the boundaries with many stunning, eye-catching creations,” continued Miss Markwell, who organised the event with the help of students from Years 7 to 13, both on and off the catwalk.

“Several members of staff were involved in a variety of roles, including modelling, but most of the jobs to bring the show to life were covered by students.

“One hundred and thirty students took part from all year groups, helping with modelling, hair and makeup, front-of-house and ticket sales, promotions, designing the poster, wardrobe and fittings.

“It’s nice to see the models’ confidence and sass develop, but some of the most rewarding parts involve students learning behind-the-scenes skills and developing their work ethic.

“The unseen work put into rehearsing, promoting, and generally getting the show on the road, is hard to put into words.”

The Mayor of King’s Lynn, Councillor Andy Bullen, was among the 300 guests attending the evening, while support was also provided by Fent Shop in Lynn, which offers a discount to all BTEC Fashion students.

“The Fashion Show has become a highlight of the school year, and is looked forward to by everyone,” added Miss Markwell.

“It encourages the students’ confidence, creativity, and self-belief, and provides work experience in a variety of roles in the production of the show.

“This year, the collections had the wow factor. I am so proud of all my participants, and especially the designers. I feel like a fairy godmother at times, when seeing the students’ transformation and growth.

“I wish all the best for the Year 13 designers who are progressing to university and apprenticeships to study Fashion and Textiles.”