Entirely masterminded by the sixth form, the annual fundraising week has been a highlight of the school year for over 30 years.
Events in the week, involving both pupils and staff, include a fancy dress parade, a lip sync battle, a talent show, quizzes and games and the renowned annual netball match between the High School and boys from Portsmouth Grammar School, which culminates in the finale of the Fashion Show running across next Thursday and Friday. The whole week will raise vital funds for Sophie’s Legacy.
Last term, the Head Girl team led a whole school assembly, about Sophie’s Legacy and how Sophie’s mum, Charlotte, from a warehouse in Fareham, provides meals from ‘Cook’, small packages with basic necessities to children and their families in hospital and Saturday night pizzas for parents across forty children’s wards.
‘Sophie’s Legacy is a charity that was created in memory of Sophie Fairall and the legacy of change she wanted to create,’ said Rosie, Deputy Head Girl responsible for charities. ‘Sophie had just turned nine when she was diagnosed with a rare form of childhood cancer called Rhabdomyosarcoma in September 2020.
‘During her treatment, Sophie endured nine rounds of intense chemotherapy and seven weeks of radiotherapy. Sadly, in September 2021, Sophie, aged 10, died only a year after her diagnosis.’
‘This is a terrible disease,’ continued Head Girl, Emma. ‘Sophie’s Legacy helps make the children’s and parent’s days in hospital much brighter, helping them look for the positives. Sophie hoped for a play specialist seven days a week in hospitals, improvements for food for children in hospital and parents who stay with their child. She also hoped for GPs, nurses and health professionals to be trained in childhood cancer and to increase the funds in childhood cancer research.’
Emma added: ‘Our lunchtime events involve engagement from both staff and pupils from all years and are always entertaining. The sixth form work together, organising everything from initial planning through to the content of each event as well as the finances, logistics and marketing. Everything we’re doing encourages imagination, organisation and a true sense of camaraderie.’
Mrs Ann Clark, an alumna from the Class of 1965 and a former teacher of the school, said: ‘The fashion show started in 1990 so is now in its 35th year. ‘I remember the sixth form coming up with the idea of a fashion show,’ she said. ‘Jean Hapgood, a local dance teacher, was brought in to do the choreography with the girls. I let them lead the arrangements but I remember it being so much fun.’
Alumna from the Class of 1999 and now Assistant Headteacher (Pupils) and Head of Sixth Form at Portsmouth High School, Mrs Katie Wood (nee Farnhill), added:
‘Charity Week 2025 has hit new heights of excitement in our Sixth Form House. Every student is buzzing with energy as they champion the incredible charity, Sophie's Legacy. From creative fundraising ideas to heartfelt conversations about why this cause matters, their passion is inspiring. This charity holds a special place in our hearts and seeing our Sixth Form unite with such purpose is truly remarkable. The strength of our community shines through as young women support and empower one another. Led by our brilliant Head Girl Team, the week promises unforgettable moments, all building up to the spectacular Fashion Show on Thursday and Friday night. We couldn’t be prouder!’
