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Barney Student Raises thousands for Charity

A Year 13 student from Barnard Castle School has successfully raised more than £18,000 for charity through a fundraising event she organised as part of her Extended Project Qualification (EPQ) studies.

Celine J demonstrated exceptional leadership and organisational skills by planning and executing a Charity Ball to raise money for The North East Air Ambulance. The event, held in November, attracted over 250 guests and featured live music, a gourmet dinner, and an auction.

Celine, who has a passion for both charity work and event management, decided to combine these interests for her EPQ project, taking control of the organisation of the event from her parent’s HR company. The ball not only provided an opportunity to support a worthy cause but also allowed Celine to demonstrate her academic abilities by managing a complex, real-world project from start to finish.

“I wanted to create an event that could make a real difference to the charity I support, and was overwhelmed by the results,” Celine said. “I’ve learnt so much throughout the process, from managing budgets, collecting donations and coordinating volunteers, to overcoming unexpected challenges. I’m so grateful to everyone who attended and supported the event.”

Celine’s Art teacher, Mrs S Rothwell, donated a sculpture to the event, which raised £500 at auction. The design was created in ceramic forms that aimed to emulate the deep shadows and fluid lines created by historical mining.

Mrs Rothewell said: “Celine’s dedication and hard work have been truly impressive. Not only has she organised an extraordinary event, but she has also used the experience to further her own learning in a practical and meaningful way. We are incredibly proud of her achievements.”

The money raised will go directly towards the region’s air ambulance, which works to bring pioneering pre-hospital care to the scene, rescuing hundreds of severely injured or ill patients every year.