Students in the yellow for charity

Staff and students at a Hunstanton school swapped their usual attire for sunnier shades when they held a fundraising event for a mental health charity.

Smithdon High School was awash with yellow on Thursday 10 October in support of Young Minds, which raises awareness of mental health issues in young people.

The annual Hello Yellow Day initiative saw students across the school sport yellow clothing and accessories, while members of staff also dressed in the colour.

Everyone taking part donated to the cause, while activities were also held across the day at the school, which is part of the West Norfolk Academies Trust.

“All students were invited to wear a yellow accessory and/or a yellow top under their school blazer, and bring £1, which went to Young Minds,” said Tina Bucke, who is Pastoral Support Manager at Smithdon and organised the event with the help of Assistant Head Mike Johnson.

“There were lots of activities the school took part in – an assembly about Young Minds and mental health; lesson starters to promote positive mental health for Tutor Time and for each lesson; and a Photo Booth during lunch time.”

The event has become a regular fixture in the Smithdon calendar and the school hopes to have raised over £200 for the charity this time.

“We have taken part in Hello Yellow every year for at least three years, and before the lockdown,” added Ms Bucke. “It’s a really fun day, with the ‘yellow’ bringing a smile to everyone’s face. Last year we raised £199, which we’re hoping to have beaten this year.

“These events are so important for the students to raise vital funds for Hello Yellow, should they ever need support from them, and to show children and young people they’re not alone with their mental health.”

Hello Yellow was also celebrated by fellow WNAT member Clenchwarton Primary School.