Parents and pupils alike were devastated at the unexpected closure of Putney Park School in SW15, earlier this year. Despite the strenuous efforts of all concerned to alter the decision, the school ceased trading in July 2013.

All was not negative, however, when some parents felt a little good could come of the decision by helping less fortunate children benefit from the discarded uniforms and sports kit. Centro Juan Pablo II School support the poorest children in Granada, Western Nicaragua, to be able to further their education. Children attend the school after classes at the public school are over and, as such, it stands as a beacon of for those attending.

With class sizes of up to 45, a teacher form this South American school realised that the children could benefit significantly from further support by way of a sense of pride, ownership and belonging. And from a practical standpoint; providing essential clothing to those who can barely afford it.

34 boxes of Putney Park uniforms were dispatched to Nicaragua and a further 16 boxes full of blazers, coats, hats, scarves and sports clothing were sent to a charity supporting children with aids in Africa. Both sets of children and their teachers were utterly thrilled with the donations. Headmaster of Centro Juan Pablo II School commented (translated from Spanish): “We thank God for his generous initiative with our children. Thanks to all who make this donation. We want to say to all the generous parents and children who donated their uniforms, many thanks on behalf of children and in our name, thank you very much.... These uniforms will be of great value and assistance to the educational process of our pupils...”

The children of Mombasa were similarly delighted as Ian Govendir, Chairman and Founder of Aids Orphan UK Trust, added: ”The children are extremely proud and grateful for [the uniforms] which are being made very good use of.”

Based on information supplied by Emily Perry.