Their story, in their words…
We wanted to help their fellow pupils have the opportunity to save money whilst saving clothes from landfill, therefore reducing the negative impact of fast fashion on the environment. We conceived and ran the Tailoring Up-cycling Club where students could repurpose and reimagine their old clothes or select from those donated by other students and teachers.
The club ran every Friday after school for a term. Sylvie’s sewing skills were supported by those of her friends from her GCSE Textiles course, Neveah and Jasmine, while Eljay assisted with the smooth running of the overall operation. They helped students master new skills, using hand and machine sewing techniques to repair, adjust or totally overhaul items to enable them to be worn and enjoyed again.
At the end of the term, they unveiled the creations in a Fashion Showcase as a part of the school’s Music and Art Open Evening. Hundreds of parents and pupils enjoyed the event. Sylvie introduced the club on stage and some of the participants talked through their designs. The clothes were displayed on dramatically lit maniquins which were revealed as the curtains opened to music. Eljay was responsible for the stage production. We would like to continue with club next term, extending the positive impact of this initiative to more pupils.
