Purbeck School Sixth Form had lots to smile about when they were all together on the last day of term.

Not only were they in a celebratory mood but were able to take pride in (their) most favourite day of the year: The Annual Sixth Form Charity Dress Up Day!

After the five long months of online lessons prior to the summer holidays, they had been reaping the benefits of being back in school which had seen them preparing their costumes for the last day of term in a bid to spread some Christmas Spirit throughout the school - and raise money for charity.

The students took the time alongside their studies to give something back to the local community and help two worthy charities.

The sixth formers personally selected the local Wareham foodbank as one of their chosen charities to benefit.

Issy Holmes, a head prefect, said: “As we near Christmas, more families are turning to using foodbanks as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. Foodbanks are relying on donations more than ever and as a school we have been able to collect an array of items to support the local community.”

The second charity they chose to support this year was the Lexi-May Trust and they were able to fundraise through the fancy dress and Christmas jumper day on the last day of term.

The Lexi-May Trust supports children with terminal illness or life limiting conditions in Dorset.After Lexi May, a beautiful, fun, loving, smiley happy 7 year old was diagnosed with an inoperable Brain Tumor her family were given an estimated 9 – 12 months of precious time to make memories as a family.

They are now helping similar families to do the same.