Full Breakdown
Westlake Boys High School Sewing Club: From Idea to Runway
By Drooid · · How we work
Launch and Growth
In May, year-13 student Cooper Phillips asked media-studies teacher Casey de Wit how she would feel about starting a sewing club. De Wit responded affirmatively, and Cooper, together with Prince Mancilla, became the founding members. Soon after, Kruze Agnew joined, followed by several other boys.
Activities and Achievements
The boys began by sewing on scrap fabric, producing tote bags before moving on to larger projects that required more material. To fund these, they sold handmade bunting to teachers, making 33 sales. The proceeds covered a trip to the fabric retailer Spotlight, with surplus funds enabling the group to showcase garments at New Zealand Fashion Week. Since then, members have crafted trousers, shorts, and a soft-toy bunny, describing the finished pieces as “more like artwork.”
Resources and Support
All sewing machines are either donated or sourced second-hand from Westlake Girls. De Wit adds that if student interest grows, the school could propose adding the subject.
Student Experiences
> “We’ve stuffed up and had to unpick for ages,” — It’s Joseph
Kruze enjoys the ironing stage, describing it as “important” and “something I love.” Joseph Wrightson, who also plays rugby, admits moments of frustration such as “I’m not OK!” but finds satisfaction when a seam or pocket bag succeeds.
Data & Statistics
- 33 bunting sales funded the Spotlight trip.
- 763 New Zealand education organisations are authorised to assess apparel cutting and sewing to Level 2, though not all offer the subject.
- The club currently includes six year-13 members plus Blas Chacon-Monreal, a year-11 student expected to recruit new members for 2027.
Impact and Future Plans
Members are balancing club work with looming exams. Cooper plans a sparky apprenticeship and may later study fashion design. Kruze is considering a drainage or plumbing apprenticeship. Prince intends to relocate to Perth for employment, while Joseph has applied to the University of Otago. The club’s continuity hinges on recruiting new students, with Blas Chacon-Monreal poised to bring fresh participants next year.
What’s Next
The club aims to maintain its weekly meetings through the 2027 school year, expand its membership, and potentially lobby for a formal soft-tech curriculum if interest continues to rise.