Wednesday lunch time resounded to the beat of the LipSync Battle. There were brave entries from students in all year groups, who were prepared to strut their stuff and make us roar with laughter in aid of The Smile of Arran, especially Terry Shortt and Taylor Nicholson- again! Maisie Smith and Elizabeth Curnock sang delightful solos and were very impressive too. Floor space was at a premium as the hall was packed for the event with generous students and staff, who donated their cash to watch the stars. Thank you to Mr Lewis-James for organising the Battle and to Max Felton and Amelia Bell who organised the contestants. As a finale, the staff raffle was drawn for the giant Smile of Arran cake, which had been kindly donated and raised over £90; the lucky winner was Ms Linsdell!

The Smile of Arran Trust logo is a beautiful tree, which Ms Gerrard re-created skilfully on canvas for staff and students to add their fingerprint ‘leaf’ in their House colour. This will be displayed in school. Thank you to the Year 10 students who worked tirelessly every day on this activity and provided plenty of wipes to clean up fingers!
Aspiring Year 10 Prefect candidates for Aspiration provided non-stop refreshments for staff and parents at the Year 7 Parents’ Evening, all in aid of the Smile of Arran.

Friday offered a non-uniform day, which is always popular and provided a welcome relief from the constant refrain of ‘Tuck your shirt in!’, but this time the theme was green or sportswear. No-one disappointed! The (S)Miles for Smile of Arran sponsored walk took place in Arctic conditions at lunchtime on Friday as well. Thank you to Mr Child for organising the athletes and to the many students from all Houses, who battled the wind and hail to complete the laps of the field, running ,walking or three-legged! They raised magnificent sums, especially Lauren-Mae Cooke and Sarah Taylor who raked in £86 and £83 respectively! Despite the chilly conditions, the Aspiration Prefects managed a roaring trade of ice creams with sticky sauce! Ms Barnard kindly braved the cold as well and donated proceeds from her jewellery stall.

Many students added their support by purchasing the brand new Smile of Arran caps, key rings, wrist bands and pens, which are still available from the House Office and the charity’s website. One aim is to photograph the wearers of wrist bands in as many different locations in this country and across the world, so Ramsey students will be taking their bands to Strasbourg and Stuttgart in July!

Thank you to the office and Finance staff who sold raffle tickets and had the job of counting the amazing amount of money raised during the week. Ramsey students and their families, and staff raised the staggering total of £ 1646.63 and this is a credit to the supportive, caring and generous nature of all at Ramsey. The Smile of Arran Trust can continue their mission to provide the help and support for families and research.

Mrs R Sims

Click here to view the fun from the Lip Sync Battle.