Larbert High School pupils' fashion upcycling project for Strathcarron Hospice

Larbert High School began the ambitious project last year with the aim of transforming old clothing and furniture into funky new products that would bring in cash for Strathcarron Hospice.

The coronavirus pandemic meant producing the 2020 collection was even more demanding.

However, the talent and determination of students and staff shone through and the new designs now take pride of place in Strathcarron’s vintage shop in Bridge of Allan.

Mhairi McAinsh, art and design and community arts teacher, said: “Covid-19 was never going to stop us producing the collection this year and we always embrace a challenge at Larbert High.

“With an estimated 50 million tons of clothing discarded every year, we are passionate about encouraging everyone to buy vintage or reuse and re-purpose their old clothes and furniture.

Falkirk and Grangemouth areas with the lowest number of Covid-19 cases between December 13 and 19

“This year, students from S3, senior community arts and practical woodwork classes, have created a collection of re-purposed garments and upcycled furniture/interior accessories which are now for sale, helping to reduce waste and generate valuable monies for the hospice.”

Ordinarily, the collection would go on show at Strathcarron's annual Glitz and Glam event.

The current Covid-19 government restrictions put paid to that plan, howevever, photography of the collection is now available to view on the Strathcarron website.

This has enabled Larbert High to include a record number of students and departments in the project, including S5 Higher photography and media.

A group of S3 pupils will also be accredited with a painting and decorating unit award from the SQA.

Fiona Hannah, deputy area retail manager at Strathcarron, said: “We are so proud of the partnership that we have with Larbert High School.

“The creativity, hard work and determination that we have seen from Mhairi McAinsh, all staff and pupils involved has been inspirational.

“It goes without saying that this has not been the year that anyone expected.

“With all the challenges we have faced this year, it has been remarkable to have worked on a project that sends out so many positive messages whilst raising much-needed funds for the hospice.”

Anyone interested in partnering with Strathcarron Hospice’s shops should email [email protected].

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