Airhead heiress Paris turns charity worker as she visits South Africa schoolchildren

She was the airhead heiress who pledged to abandon her wildchild ways and devote herself to charity after a spell in prison.

But if the rest of the world was slow to notice any discernible change in the behaviour of Paris Hilton, they could be forgiven.

Do gooder: Paris Hilton finds her inner charity worker as she poses with a child at a South African school

Since her release from jail last year, the sleazy socialite has barely paused for breath as she shimmied her way round the LA party circuit in a succession of risque outfits.

However, if these pictures are anything to go by, there may be signs that a new, caring, sharing Paris is about to emerge on an unsuspecting public.

Popular: Paris had promised to do more charity work after she was jailed for driving offences last year

The 27-year-old jailbird spent part of her time on a trip to South Africa posing with children and signing autographs for young fans at Jakaranda Kinder Huis school in Pretoria.

Wearing a demure white outfit, floppy hat and serious expression, Paris appeared to be trying to refashion herself as a jet-setting do-gooder.

Airport: Paris arrives in South Africa with boyfriend Benji Madden from band Good Charlotte

But whatever her motives, the mob of children seemed thrilled to see her.

Paris was given a 45-jail sentence after being convicted of violating the terms of her probation in an alcohol-related reckless driving case.

The Simple Life star was in South Africa to support boyfriend Benji Madden, whose band Good Charlotte are performing at the My Coke Fest over Easter.

Party girl: Paris in more familiar pose performing a burlesque routine