READING college students walked the catwalk in upcycling fashion show, as part of museum’s fashion week.

Students with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND), from Reading College and University Centre, took part in the fashion project with Museum of English Rural Life, University of Reading.

The Supported Learning students were asked to create a range of rural fashion inspired garments and model them in a fashion show as part of the museum’s fashion week which took place from May 13-21.

The students created 18 outfits by upcycling donated fabric and other materials, clothing and home furnishings into new outfits.

Leo Bossman, who is studying a Work Preparation Horizons programme at the college, said modelling is his dream job.

Leo said: “I really enjoyed modelling the outfits for the photoshoot and fashion show as it allowed me to get into the zone and be more confident. I would love to be a model in the future, it would be my dream job!

Reading-based charity, Real Time, filmed the fashion show at the museum on Redlands Road, with students also taking part in a photoshoot at the college’s campus in King’s Road.

This project also provided a valuable work experience opportunity for Hair and Beauty Entry Level 3 students at from the college who did the hair and makeup for both the photoshoot and fashion show.

Leo added: “It’s allowed me to be creative and learn to sew. I felt nervous at first but the more I did it the more confident I became, and it felt more natural. I learnt new skills which will stay with me forever to use in day-to-day life.”

The pupils had to get creative with their upcycling including using lampshade frames to create Royal Ascot ladies’ day inspired hats.

Others chose to use carpets to create a cloak.

The project ended with a gala event where the film was broadcast to students, staff and family members at the museum on Friday, May 19.

Ebonny Lay, a High Needs Teacher at Activate Learning, said: “I’m really proud of the students. 

“The project has helped them to become more confident and learn new skills such as hand sewing and using the sewing machine. It was interesting to see the students taking part in the fashion show and photoshoot as we saw a different side to them.”

Naomi Kozlowski, Hairdressing Teacher at Activate Learning, added: “It also gave them the opportunity to see what it’s like to work in this area as a career, which is beneficial for them in the future.”