J&B News & Updates

01.07.25

Vikki Jackson-Smith (Managing Director) and Isobel Hanley (Marketing Coordinator) were delighted to be invited back to Catcote Academy for their annual Trashion Show. It was a fantastic day celebrating creativity, sustainability and the talent of the students.

This inclusive, student-led event challenged students to design and wear garments made entirely from recycled materials. From crisp packets and cardboard, to bottle caps and fabric scraps, the students transformed everyday waste into imaginative runway-ready outfits.

This year’s theme, "400 Years of Rail," inspired a mix of train conductors, ticket inspectors, stations, and even trains, with costumes that clearly demonstrated great thought and effort behind them.

Our Role as Catcote’s Enterprise Advisor

As Enterprise Advisor for Catcote Academy, J&B Recycling is committed to inspiring students by connecting classroom learning with the world of work. This role, in partnership with Tees Valley Combined Authority, enables us to support Catcote Academy through a wide range of activities – from events like the Trashion Show to careers talks, sustainability assemblies, and regular in-school engagement.

We’re passionate about combining business with education, which is why our Marketing Coordinator, Isobel, also serves as Careers Champion for Catcote Academy, she playing an active role in delivering this support.

Isobel said, “One of the standout designs for me was ‘Lady Off the Rails,’ which honoured the first female train driver. It wasn’t just creative, it was empowering, and a brilliant example of how fashion, history, and sustainability can collide in meaningful ways.”

Trashion Show Highlights

This year’s show was packed with creativity and passion. Vikki and Isobel were honoured to join a brilliant judging panel, kicking off the day by viewing the students’ mood boards, which beautifully explained the inspiration and process behind each outfit.

The event began with an incredible performance of “99 Red Balloons” by the Performing Arts team, which set the tone for what was a fun-filled and emotionally powerful day.

Each class across the school, including Sixth Form and Link classes, worked super hard on their outfits, and the smiles on the day definitely reflected this, from both staff and students.

Awards were presented across the school’s Red, Yellow, and Blue pathways, along with special prizes for Top Model, Best Mood Board, and Best in Show. Every single student deserved recognition for their creativity, confidence, and commitment to deliver the message of sustainability.

A Longstanding Partnership

While the Trashion Show celebrates the student’s imagination and environmental awareness, it's also a reflection of the relationship between J&B Recycling and Catcote Academy.

A great example of this partnership is Emma, a former Catcote Academy student. She first joined us over a decade ago through a work experience placement while she was a student at Catcote. Now part of their Post-19 provision, Emma continues to visit our office every week, supporting with administrative tasks and brightening everyone’s day with her positivity and sense of humour.

Emma’s journey is one we’re incredibly proud of. She is a valued member of our team, and her continued growth and confidence continue to inspire us all.

Looking Ahead

We’ve had the privilege of supporting Catcote’s Trashion Show for the past six years, and somehow, each one feels even more special than the last. It’s not just about recycled fashion - it’s about inclusion, confidence, and showing what young people can achieve when they’re encouraged and celebrated.

A huge thank you to everyone at Catcote Academy - the students, staff, and fellow judges - for another unforgettable day. We left feeling inspired and full of admiration.

We’re already looking forward to next year... but in the meantime, keep an eye on our social media for this year’s brilliant runway photos!