A group of adult students recently hosted a fashion fundraiser in Weston-super-Mare, bringing together the local community for an evening of style, entertainment, and charitable giving.

The event, organised by a focus group consisting of Lauren, Seonagh, Julie, and Tash as part of their pre-employment course, successfully raised funds for Weston Hospicecare, Motor Neurone Disease Association, and Alzheimer’s Society. It showcased how education, creativity, and community spirit can come together to make a meaningful impact.

The focus group have worked on this project since last December, and the project has encouraged them to develop their skills for the workplace. The group also recently won the ‘Making a Difference’ award at our Student Conference, showing the impact they have had on their own personal development as well as the community.

The North Somerset Scrapstore played a key role in supporting a successful steampunk-themed fundraising fashion show, providing many of the materials used to create the outfits. The fashion show raised money for three charities: the Alzheimer's Society, Weston Hospicecare, and the MND Association. Funds were generated through online ticket sales, tickets sold on the door, a raffle and auction, the sale of donated clothing, and photography sales from the event. Initial estimates suggest that approximately £750 was raised for each charity, with final figures to be confirmed.

Many of the outfits featured in the show were donated, altered, or created by the team themselves using reclaimed materials. Hair and makeup were provided free of charge by a volunteer, helping to keep costs low and maximise fundraising efforts.

The event was held at the Borough Arms and featured entertainment from two local singers, Angela and Annie. Models were recruited from across Weston-super-Mare through local Facebook groups, resulting in a diverse range of participants of different ages and body types. Promotion was supported by local media, with the Weston Mercury helping to publicise the event to a wider audience. Photography was provided by an external photographer who volunteered through a connection with one of the students.

Organising the event presented several challenges, including marketing, securing support from local businesses, arranging a venue, and coordinating a group with differing schedules. Despite these obstacles, the team successfully delivered the event and reflected on lessons learned, discussing how they might improve future events.

The fundraiser formed part of the students’ coursework, offering valuable real-world experience in event management and community engagement – key components of their current studies. Thanks to strong attendance and generous donations, the event made a meaningful contribution to all three charities.

Juliette Weaver, Lecturer in Pre-Employment, said: "When people work together with passion and purpose, amazing things happen. This group proved that by creating a charity fashion show that brought their community together and made a positive impact."

Take a look at our pre-employment courses here.