Big Sleep Out

On the evening of Friday 10 June over 30 boarders in Year 7 to Upper Sixth, along with four members of boarding staff, gathered under the awning in the school garden to make camp for the night. The girls gave up their beds and were sleeping ‘rough’ to raise awareness and funds for the charity Hope Into Action; which provides homes for the homeless in partnership with local churches. Most of the girls didn’t have sleeping bags, instead sleeping wrapped in blankets on gym mats. Although the day had been hot, the temperature soon dropped once the sun went down. Despite this, the majority of the girls made it through the night.

Special praise goes to the Upper Sixth girls who, having been revising earlier in the evening, joined the group late on Friday night and found there was no room left for them under the awning. Not put off, the girls set up camp next to the rest of the group and were rained on when the heavens opened at 4.00am! As uncomfortable as it was sleeping outside, being cold and wet, the boarders enjoyed the experience, including games of Monopoly and cards that were played until the light failed. All involved had a fun and entertaining evening but were mindful of the real reason for the event, and that their experience was very different to that of someone actually living on the streets.

The girls maintained great spirits throughout the night and, although more money may still be raised, have so far raised £400 for this worthwhile charity. There are plans in place to hold a big sleep out again next year, and to challenge the girls to do so without their books and games for entertainment.