Pupils at Helena Romanes School in Dunmow celebrated 'Christmas around the world' and raised money for charity at the end of term.

Staff and pupils voted to raise money for Havens and Little Havens hospices and Essex Dementia Care, with assemblies in the last week of term sharing the work of each charity.

Dunmow Broadcast: Staff at Helena Romanes School dressed up for Charity WeekStaff at Helena Romanes School dressed up for Charity Week (Image: HRS)

Tickets for a 'Wo/man vs Food' eating challenge and 'Strictly Teacher Come Dancing' sold out within eight minutes and raised £700.

Director of Sixth Form Mr Cooke said: "The shows provided great entertainment to students and was a thoroughly enjoyable experience for everyone involved.

"Many thanks to the teachers who 'suffered' for their art in the name of charity!

Dunmow Broadcast: Sixth Form students held a bake sale to raise moneySixth Form students held a bake sale to raise money (Image: HRS)

"I’d like to personally thank all the wonderful parents that paid for non-uniform days, participated in the raffle and gave generously.

"It really motivated the students and contributed to two fantastic charities. We have a wonderful and generous community of parents!

"We’re still counting the funds but, at this point, we’re up to £3,200 with lots more still coming in."

Sixth Form students ran a disco and a Christmas market for primary school pupils, raising money with a bake sale, a challenge to guess the name of an elf and a goose, sporting events, raffles and more.

More than 70 pupils also took part in the 'Christmas around the world' carol concert, performing to a sell-out audience of parents, staff and members of the community.

Dunmow Broadcast: Pupils performed at the Christmas concertPupils performed at the Christmas concert (Image: HRS)

Director of music Mr Cairns was assisted by Great Dunmow Town Band and Big Voices choir to put on a show within just 13 weeks, featuring solo performances, combined choirs and Christmas carols.

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Mr Cairns said he was "thrilled" to hear feedback from parents about how much they enjoyed the evening, and thanked all pupils, parents and staff who helped make the concert a success.

He added: "The evening was testament to all the hard work students have given over recent weeks and how many students access the extracurricular music programme outside of school music lessons."

Proceeds from the evening will go towards the music department. The school's next concert takes place on Thursday, March 21.