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A charity fashion show launched the Stonyhurst Scholarship Fund this week, which will enable children in Zimbabwe to receive an education. The show, organised by Anna Thomas and Celia Lupton, was a huge success, attended by over 300 people and raising almost £3,000.

Mr Paul Warrilow, Head of Religious Studies, and Sophie Le Breton have just returned from Zimbabwe, and told the audience why the scholarship fund is so worthwhile. “I was struck by how eager the children are to learn,” said Sophie. “Pupils use every available minute to read and work, even when waiting for a teacher to arrive. They live in absolute poverty, with no electricity or running water, yet their uniforms are pristine because they are proud to be going to school.”

Mr Warrilow told us about Kudzai Sigauke, a 12 year-old whose father was badly injured last month and therefore cannot work. Kudzai will be the first beneficiary of the new fund, which will enable him to complete his education. 

The show began with a stunning creation in black silk, hot from the catwalks of the London Fashion Week; it was followed by childrenswear, evening dresses, casual clothing for men, golf attire and bridal gowns, all ably modelled by Stonyhurst pupils.

“There are many people to thank” said Anna. “The lighting, sound and music were brilliant, not to mention the help behind the scenes with makeup and dressing. Above all, the pupils themselves were brilliant – they really worked hard as a team and supported everyone’s efforts.”