Rt Hon Sir Julian Smith KCB CBE MP welcomed students and staff from Ripon Grammar School to Parliament on Monday, 2 March, as they presented their innovative fashion project promoting an alcohol‑free childhood, in partnership with the Community Alcohol Partnership (CAP).
The school’s Fashion Club has been developing a collection of garments designed to encourage healthy teenage lifestyle choices. Incorporating bold pop‑art logos and upcycled streetwear, the students’ work impressed CAP so much that they were awarded a £2,500 grant to expand the project.
The funding will help the students purchase new textile‑design equipment and provide prizes for the club’s design competition. The final streetwear collection will go on to feature in the school’s charity Autumn Fashion Show, raising funds for St Michael’s Hospice in Harrogate.
During the visit, Julian met pupils Jessica Glew, Isla De Wit and Margarita Romaniuk as well as Welfare Officer, Caroline Hare and Teacher of Design Technology, Elizabeth Goddard, who leads the school’s Fashion Club.
Speaking after the meeting, Julian said, “It was fantastic to welcome such talented and imaginative students from Ripon Grammar School to Parliament. Their work shows how creativity can drive positive messages about healthy choices and alcohol awareness. The students, Miss Goddard and the whole school community should be very proud of what they have achieved, and I am really pleased that their ideas have been recognised nationally."
The students later showcased their garments at the CAP Parliamentary reception in the Terrace Pavilion, highlighting the charity’s work to reduce the harm caused by underage drinking and to support young people in making informed, confident choices.
