Hartlepool students put on an eco-friendly fashion show as staff pay touching tribute

Catcote Academy, in the town’s Catcote Road, was overtaken by fashion buzz for a day as students put on a special environment-friendly fashion show.

The “Trashion” show saw the entire school unite to raise awareness on environmental issues and sustainability through art and design.

Over the course of eight weeks, the youngsters, together with staff, created fashion outfits and accessories fit for the runway from upcycled and recycled materials.

Their hard work culminated in a glamorous event on Friday, June 18, as students showcased their creations at a catwalk outside the school.

Teacher Cheryll Kung has said the children enjoyed taking part in the show and added: “It all went according to plan. I think it couldn’t have gone any better.

"Just to see smiles on students’ faces again, it was lovely.

"It felt like school again. Even though we were still distanced, we had the music, there was just a real buzz about it. There’s still a buzz now.

"All the outfits were above and beyond.

"Each class worked together as teams. They got awards as well on the day.

"No doubt it seems like an annual thing. Everyone loved it.”

Apart from creating and modelling the outfits, the youngsters were also tasked with organising and running the event on the day, as well as taking on the roles or reporters and photographers.

Ms Kung added: "We’re just really proud of the students, with what they’ve been through this year as well.

"It’s been a tough time. They’ve just done amazing.”

Student Carl, 14, said: “As a class, we’ve been sewing materials piece by piece.

"All the students have helped to design the outfits and the accessories.

"It was fun and very exciting to be part of the event.”

In keeping with the theme, staff created upcycled waistcoats in memory of inspirational headteacher Alan Chapman, who passed away in October 2019 at the age of 67 after a short illness.

Mr Chapman, who “loved waistcoats, the ‘bairns and art” was remembered in a fitting tribute, as staff wore the upcycled waistcoats throughout the day.

More pictures from the “Trashion” show will be published shortly.

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