A leading North East girls' school has raised thousands for charities in their locale , strengthening students' links with their community. 

Durham High School, located at Farewell Hall, South Road, has already raised over £2,000 for 18 different charities in the last year, with students vowed to expand their fundraising program following this success. 

This month alone, students of all age groups have taken part in a festive elf dash for St Cuthbert's Hospice and constructed sweetie cones for hundreds of Christmas hampers going to families affected by food poverty.

Recently, a glowing Independent Schools Inspectorate report praised the school for its "excellent" role within the community, recognising its commitment to supporting "those less fortunate". 

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Simone Niblock, Principal of DHS, said: "The girls really understand the importance of their role in society and the positive impact they have in the local community, and we are proud of the commitment they give to charitable work and volunteering in County Durham. 

The Northern Echo: Durham High School students have raised over £2000 for charity in the last year.Durham High School students have raised over £2000 for charity in the last year. (Image: Stride PR Association)

"Their contribution within both the school and the wider community was highlighted in the ISI report, endorsing the holistic approach we take at DHS and our pledge to educate the whole child so they not only achieve their very best academically but also become upstanding members of society, who strive to make a difference."

At the school, fundraising initiatives are conceptualized and executed by the student-led Rotary Interact Club, giving students hands-on experience with the organization of fundraising. 

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Older pupils plan and deliver events, overseen by a leadership team of reps and a pupil-led committee, consisting of a President, Vice President, Treasurer and Secretary.

Such is its popularity and success among those aged 12-18, the school has decided to expand the operation to incorporate a ‘Rota Kids’ club for younger pupils - with the hope of instilling a lifelong passion for charity.

Sarah Robinson, the senior teacher in charge of extra-curricular, explained: "Pupils gain so much from being involved in community and charitable work, not least the enjoyment they feel from giving back and being good citizens.

"We want that to filter right through the school to ensure that those in our younger year groups can be involved and have fun, while gaining valuable experience in helping others."

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