Friday 15th November heralded the first of the 2019-2020 House Charity Days. It was St. George’s turn to lead the whole school in a day of fundraising for BBC Children in Need. All the children enjoyed the chance to come to school in home clothes, pudsey onesies and various colourful and spotty attire, paying a £1 contribution for the privilege.

Prep gathered together for a morning assembly where they learnt more about the history of children in need and the now famous Pudsey bear. Pudsey Bear made his television debut in 1985, he was designed by Joanna Ball, a BBC graphic designer, who named him after the West Yorkshire town where she was born. He proved very popular and returned as BBC Children in Need’s official mascot the following year with a design change to that of this famous yellow bear with a spotted bandana.

Everyone was delighted when Pudsey joined the boys on stage and he stuck around for selfies at break and lunchtime as well as taking a tour of Pre-Prep. We were also joined by Green Pudsey – a special edition courtesy of the Vieten-Kays who gave Pudsey a make-over in St. George’s House colours!

Pudsey’s Magic Fiver challenge has involved St. George’s boys in some enterprising activities over the last few weeks. Some of the boys stood up and talked about their challenge in assembly and we also watched a short video (see below) of some of the fundraising in action – these included bake sales, car washing, making pakoras for the staff, sponsored bike rides, busking and concerts.

A group of boys are due to take on their challenge tomorrow afternoon and will be swimming the channel for Children in Need! Alex, Archie, Bertie, Harry, Harry, Henry, Jai, Jenson, Lucius, Nico, Remy, Robert, Theo, Vinay, Vivek and Wilf will need to complete just under 2,000 lengths between them and will be swimming in the outdoor pool at the Priory tomorrow afternoon. If you would like to sponsor them please visit: https://www.justgiving.com/crowdfunding/daniela-vieten-kaystgeorgesboyscharityswimathon Good luck boys!

The day ended with a customary bake sale and plenty of pudsey-themed biscuits and cakes to tempt our children, who despite the vast quantities of sweets and candy floss already consumed during the day, still had an appetite for more! We look forward to hearing how much has been raised in due course, well done St. George’s and thank you to everyone for your generosity.