Teachers at a Southend school were forgiven for looking as if they were heading for the sports pitch rather than the classroom.

Seven staff at Westcliff High School for Boys donned the football kits of the team they support - all in the name of charity.

To make sure they did not feel too out of place pupils at the Kenilworth Gardens school swapped their uniform for casual clothes.

The mufti day was part of the school's charity which also featured a sponsored walk along the pier, quiz night and battle of the bands.

This year all the money raised will be split between the Hearing Dogs for Deaf People charity and the Southend Taxi Drivers' Society for Underprivileged Children.

Last year the school's charity committee raised £4,000 during the year.

Deputy headteacher Paul Priestley said: "Charity week is organised by the pupils and allows them to work collectively for the benefit of the whole community.

"It receives generous support from local industry and emphasises the school's wider community responsibilities."

The Ateam - staff from Westcliff High School for Boys dressed up for charity

Picture: STEVE O'CONNELL

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