Students and staff "slept rough" in their school quad and raised £6,000 for a summer break for children with special needs.

On a windy evening last month, 50 pupils, teachers and staff from St John’s School, in Epsom Road, Leatherhead, took on the challenge in aid of the school’s community holiday - a week-long residential break for children aged 10 to 16.

Students volunteer 24 hours a day during the week, offering each child one-to-one support and care, and providing respite for parents and carers.

The group slept outside without tents and raised £6,000 towards the running of the holiday.

Vicky MacFarlane said: "I am so glad that I raised money for the children to have fun this summer.

"It wasn’t the end of the world to sleep out and have just one hard night.

It made me realise just how hard it must be for those who have to sleep out every night."

Lize Vogel said the night made her "really think about all the children and families who have to sleep out every night, without sleeping bags, pillows or anything and how hard it is for them".

Sophie Brewer added: "I really want to take part in the summer community holiday this year to help make a difference to the children with special needs.

"My friends did it last year and thought it was life-changing. I can’t wait."

The school's community holiday will take place from August 15 to 22 and students will be fundraising throughout the academic year.