On Friday 1 May, Year 12 (A3) pupils at Bryanston School spent the night sleeping out on the floodlit astroturf to raise funds for YMCA Bournemouth, in support of those experiencing homelessness.
The A3 cohort collectively raised an impressive £3,000 through the initiative, now in its fifth year at Bryanston. Support for the event continues to grow annually, reflecting a commitment among pupils to engage with important social issues.
YMCA Bournemouth works tirelessly to raise awareness of homelessness in the local area, offering a range of support schemes to help those in need. Its “Sleep Easy” initiative encourages young people to experience just one night outdoors “so that others do not have to,” helping participants better understand the realities faced by many.
The event followed a series of fundraising and awareness activities, including a whole-school 10km walk where pupils sold homemade cakes at checkpoints. Earlier in the year, YMCA representatives also visited the school to deliver a powerful assembly on youth homelessness, which many pupils later cited as a key motivation for taking part.
The sleep-out itself was marked by a vibrant and positive atmosphere. Pupils constructed individual cardboard shelters, supplied by YMCA Bournemouth, and decorated them with flags, banners, fairy lights and colourful designs. Pupils then enjoyed games on the astroturf, along with pizza generously provided by sponsors Steele Raymond and hot chocolate and biscuits from the school’s catering team.
Event sponsors Steele Raymond and Head Richard Jones judged the shelters, awarding prizes for creativity and effort. Winners included a compact, boat-shaped structure built by Issy J, Darcy T, Ella F-S and Bea R; an ambitious 18-person “commune” complete with individual sleeping areas and a decorated entrance; and a neatly designed two-person shelter by Angie and Amelia.
Throughout the evening, pupils interviewed one another about their reasons for taking part, with many expressing a strong desire to support those facing homelessness locally and to act on the messages delivered during the earlier assembly.
Hannah Fearnley, Head of Charities and Outreach, praised the initiative, saying: “It was inspiring to see such a strong sense of community among the pupils. Events like this not only raise vital funds but also deepen understanding and empathy for those facing real hardship.”
The evening once again highlighted Bryanston’s commitment to charitable action, with pupils coming together to support an important cause.
