St Patrick's Inglewood holds fundraiser for World Down Syndrome Day

Senior pupils from St Patrick's Inglewood wearing coloured socks for World Down Syndrome Day

Pupils and staff at St Patrick's Inglewood wore brightly coloured and mismatched socks last Thursday, to mark World Down Syndrome Day.

Pupils made a gold coin donation, helping the school raise money for the Down Syndrome Association.

Down Syndrome Day is a global awareness day recognised by the United Nations since 2012. The date, March 21, is significant as it relates to the copied 21st chromosome which is exhibited in people with Down Syndrome.

People are encouraged to wear brightly coloured mismatched socks on the day as part of the #LotsOfSocks initiative.

The reasoning behind the socks is two-fold. When viewed under a microscope, chromosomes are shaped like socks, and mismatched socks are a way to celebrate people's differences.

Principal Sue Harrison says the pupils are very aware of Down Syndrome and were pleased to be able to do something in support of those living with it, as well as fundraise for a great cause.

"We are very supportive of those with three chromosomes instead of two, and our staff are really proud of the interactions and care our tamariki have for diversity and difference."