HUNDREDS of school children had a chance to dress down, or in some cases up, on Friday to help a two children's charity.

Primary and infant schools across the borough took part in the sponsored day for Noah's Ark Children's Hospice and Camp Simcha, which are the Mayor of Barnet's chosen charities this year.

One reception class pupil at Queenswell School, Whetstone, has been helped by the charity and was dressed up a a “little prince” by his mother for the day.

Headteacher Margaret Baker said: “This little boy has been with Noah’s Ark for some time and is waiting for a bowel transplant without which the future is very grim. “He came to us in the nursery with very little language and a mummy who naturally was extremely anxious about him starting school.

“She is a single parent from Albania with no family support at all. Noah's Ark has been superb in giving her support and working with the school.

“He has made huge progress at Queenswell and he interacting with his peers and his speech has developed tremendously.”

Neville Goldschneider, Chief Executive, Camp Simcha said he was “absolutely delighted” at the response from the schools, adding: “The funds will enable us to continue our work delivering toys, clowns, and balloons to children of all religions in hospital.”

Noah's Ark chief executive Gill Dodge said: “ It is really powerful when young people help other young people in their communities. “The money raised from this event will certainly make a real difference to the life-limited children and their families supported by Noah’s Ark.”