The annual Vinnies CEO Sleepout returned to Muswellbrook Showground on Thursday night.

Business owners, general managers and councilors were among those aiming to get a glimpse of what it was like for people who sleep out in the cold.

There were also a few Muswellbrook High School students who were determined to do their part.

The school raised $900 from an out of uniform pyjama day and bake sale.

And, a group of students attended the sleepout at the showground.

Teacher Katrina Byrnes said it was a record amount to raise from an out of uniform day.

“We were overwhelmed with how much money the school raised,” she said.

“I think it’s great for them to have a night where they are roughing it and experiencing what it is like being away from home and on the floor.”

The money was split between two causes, with $450 going to the Vinnies CEO Sleepout, and the other half given to the Red Door Community Kitchen.

“It is a tough situation and we want to experience it,” Year 10 student Marcus Morris said.

Fellow student Hailey Parker said it was sad to think of the people who experience it every night.

“It will probably make us realise how lucky we are to actually have homes,” she said.

St James’ Primary School students also had a pyjama day on Thursday.

The students and staff members were raising money to support their principal Niamh Marzol, who attended the Newcastle Vinnies CEO Sleepout on Thursday evening.