MORE than 60 students and staff from Stretford Grammar School took part in a Sleep Out for Shelter fundraising event on October 21.

Despite it being the first day of the half term break, students started to arrive back at school at nightfall to grab their place in the tent city which was erected behind the main school building.

Whilst there was great excitement at the opportunity to see school in a completely different way, there was also a very serious purpose behind the event.

Event organiser, Sarah Alderson, head of Wolfendale House, explained: “We wanted the students to develop some empathy for people forced to live life on the streets. We held the event in October to give a sense of the cold and lack of comforts we take for granted.”

While the rain stayed away, it was certainly a cold night under canvas. Students and staff joined together around the camp fire to share marshmallows and enjoy a burger or hot dog.

So far, more than £600 has been raised which will go directly to the charity, Shelter, which provides support and guidance not just for the homeless but also those living in uninhabitable conditions. M eanwhile, Wolfendale House is already planning next year’s sleep out, which will contain the added twist of students building their own shelter from cardboard, newspapers and bin liners.