A SCHOOL has hosted a national fundraising day for the National Service for the Prevention of Cruelty to Children (NSPCC).

The NSPCC encouraged schools nationwide to get involved with Numbers Day, which is a maths-inspired fundraising day designed for children in nursery up to secondary school age.

Shaftoe Trust Academy, based in Haydon Bridge, participated in the day which involves children dressing up with numbers and playing fun-filled maths games. They compete all day with children across the country.

Julie Phazey, Headteacher of Shaftoe Trust Academy, said: "It's lovely for the children to be involved in a fun day of maths activities. It's important work that the charity does and we're glad to participate."

Some activities are based on gameshows, such as Who Wants to Be a Mathionnaire? Children are encouraged to Dress Up for Digits, and make a donation to wear clothing with a number on it.

Karen Walker, Schools Manager from the NSPCC, said: "We are hoping for lots of schools to sign up to what can be a great day of learning and play. By getting children involved in our numbers-based activities you can also help us be there for children when they need us most."

"This year we’ve refreshed our materials to ensure everyone can join in the fun even if maths isn’t their favourite subject," she added.

Shaftoe Trust Academy joined schools across the country in hosting the national fundraising Numbers Day on Friday, February 4.

Wilf Wakeman, 10, dressed up as a timetables rockstar for Numbers Day, complete with a guitar and calculations on his outfit.

The children brought a small donation to support vital NSPCC services, such as Childline and the Speak Out, Stay Safe programme which helps to educate children on what abuse is and what to do if they're scared. All of the donations raised through Numbers Day went directly to NSPCC.

Domestic Abuse Recovering Together (DART) is another programme set up by the NSPCC, which involves specialists working with victims of domestic abuse. Analysis of the programme showed it helped reduce children's behavioural and emotional difficulties.