A school for children with special learning needs has raised more than $14,000 to help students access the personalised education they need to thrive.

Pupils and staff of the Bermuda Centre for Creative Learning braved the waters off Hawkins Island in the Great Sound for the school’s “Splash for Cash Polar Plunge” — its largest annual fundraiser.

The event raised “an impressive” $14,057 with 100 per cent of its 55 students attending alongside 25 staff and volunteers.

The school’s Upper Middle Years homeroom brought in $5,308 while an anonymous donor pledged a “surprise” $2,000 at the last moment — prompting one brave volunteer to take an unexpected plunge.

Each student raised a minimum of $100 in support of BCCL’s bursary fund — with many far exceeding that goal.

Jane Vickers, director of advancement at BCCL, called it “truly an unforgettable day filled with courage, laughter and community spirit”.

She added: “We are incredibly fortunate to have Hawkins Island host us, as it holds a special place in my heart and it is a magical place for the students to experience.”

The group departed Albuoy’s Point shortly before 10am last Thursday. At the island, students lined up on the beach and, on the whistle, took to the sea.

A spokeswoman said: “They had such a great time, it was hard to get them out of the water.”

After their dip, participants had a meal before heading back to Hamilton aboard El Zoro, captained by Chris Maughan.

The school thanked the Cox Family, the Waterfront Group of Companies, the Hawkins Island team and donors and volunteers who contributed.