Woolston Brook School

By Cath Fowler and Mark Cullen. Photographs by Claire Challinor, Steph Heaton and Donna Norman

Updated 18/12/24

What a truly magical occasion we enjoyed on Wednesday, 18th December 2024, as the spirit of Christmas filled our school halls during our annual Christmas dinner! This year’s celebration was nothing short of spectacular, and it brought with it a wonderful sense of togetherness that truly embodies the festive season.

We were thrilled to offer a FREE Christmas dinner to everyone—students, staff, and visitors alike. This gesture not only ensures that every member of our school community can partake in the celebration but also reflects our commitment to inclusivity and unity. There’s something so heartwarming about sharing a meal together, and the joy in our dining hall was palpable.

The atmosphere was electric with students, young and old, donning their finest Christmas jumpers. From reindeers and snowmen to glittering baubles, there was an array of creativity on display. It was a sight to behold! Everyone embraced the festive spirit, and the laughter and chatter created a warm ambiance that even the coldest winter day couldn't dampen. As the food was served, the excitement grew; plates piled high with turkey, stuffing, and all the trimmings awed our eager diners. This festive feast was not just a meal but a joyous celebration of community.

Our Headteacher, Mrs Cath Fowler, was positively radiant with delight as she oversaw the proceedings. Her enthusiasm for the occasion was infectious, and she took a moment to express her heartfelt gratitude to a number of wonderful individuals who contributed to making the event such a triumph. Her special thanks were directed towards Claire Brindle, our incredible Kitchen Supervisor, who worked tirelessly in preparation for this fabulous feast. Claire’s dedication did not go unnoticed, and it was touching to see Primary 2 pupils come together to present her with chocolates, flowers, and a thoughtful thank you card, recognising her hard work and commitment. It’s moments like these that remind us of the true meaning of the festive season: community, gratitude, and kindness.

Mrs Fowler also extended her appreciation to Kaye Merrill for her invaluable assistance during the preparation, alongside all the staff who worked tirelessly to ensure that the dinner was a resounding success. Their efforts created an atmosphere that allowed for a truly family-oriented celebration. It was heartening to see our staff come together to facilitate such a lovely occasion, ensuring that every detail was attended to with care and warmth.

A special mention must also go to Claire Challinor, our new Pastoral Manager, who jumped right into the festivities with enthusiasm. Ruby and Ed also played crucial roles in helping to adorn the dining room, transforming the space into a Christmas wonderland. Their creativity added to the festivities and set the perfect backdrop for our memorable celebration.

Adding to the joy was the presence of Chris Forrest, our Chair of Governors, who generously joined us for the Christmas dinner. Chris took on the delightful role of judge for our Christmas classroom challenge, which sought to celebrate the best-decorated form room. This year, Primary 2 truly stepped up, showcasing their enthusiasm and teamwork through creativity and dedication. It was no surprise when they were crowned the winners, and they will be rewarded with a class trip in January. Their efforts will surely be a cherished memory for all involved, marking this festive season as a highlight of the year.

Not to be outdone were our Year 8, 7, and 9 students, specifically Leon’s group. Their decorated form room also impressed Chris, earning them a well-deserved festive treat as a token of recognition for their hard work. The talent and creativity displayed by our learners this year were simply astounding. Each decorated classroom was filled with imaginative delights, showcasing the creative spirit that thrives within our school.

Of course, it wouldn’t be Christmas without a little furry cheer! Our beloved emotional support dog, Maggie, absolutely stole the show in her adorable Santa outfit. Her playful spirit and gentle manner encouraged smiles and laughter from both students and staff alike, weaving a thread of joy throughout the celebration. It’s amazing how animals can uplift our spirits and bring us together, and Maggie epitomised this joy during the festivities.

As the feast wound to a close, it became clear that this year's Christmas dinner was more than just a gathering; it was a heartfelt celebration of our school community. With each plate shared and each laugh exchanged, we built connections that remind us of the joy of togetherness and the magic of the season.

In reflecting on the day, it’s important to acknowledge that moments like these are the fabric of our school culture. They remind us of the importance of community, collaboration, and kindness. We are grateful for the dedication of our staff and the enthusiasm of our students who truly embody the festive spirit.

As we approach the end of the year, let us carry this sense of joy and togetherness with us into the New Year and beyond. May the warmth of the festive season remain in our hearts as we navigate the challenges and triumphs that lie ahead. The memories of laughter, shared meals, and festive cheer will surely serve as a reminder of the wonderful community we are a part of.

From all of us at school, we wish everyone a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year! Here’s to the joys and successes of 2024, and many more festive celebrations to come. Let’s continue to spread kindness and camaraderie as we move forward into the new year, keeping the spirit of this festive occasion alive in all that we do. You never know, perhaps the magic of Christmas will inspire us to create even more wonderful memories in the future. Cheers!