As a school, we have been working to make a difference to others in the run up to Christmas.
Request for Christmas present donations
The charity committee asked for donations for two local charities that support families who are struggling - My Sister's House, a charity that supports women in difficulty and crisis, and Children's BookFest, that is supporting families with gifts of new books via Chichester District Foodbank. Once the donations were in, pupils kindly helped to sort out the gifts for the two charities.
Mrs Barker, head of charities committee, told us: "My Sisters' House were overwhelmed by our parents' generosity. They were at pains to say what a huge difference our gifts will make to the children and their families. They were also delighted to see gifts for boys as they needed more of these."
Jen Rogers, Trustee & Outreach Co-ordinator for Chidren's Book Fest, also expressed her charity's gratitude when she collected the boxes of books donated by Westbourne House families. She told us that this is the second year they have collected books that can then be given to children via the Foodbank and was delighted with the number and range of books. Well done, everyone.
Happiness is making people smile - visits and fundraising
In Chichester, people gathered to hear Christmas carols and songs sung by Chapel Choir at the Cross. “The crowds were so big!” one of our Chapel choristers exclaimed. As the shoppers went on their way, or stopped to pause and listen, Christmas was in the air and lots of money was donated to Rotary charities!
Thank you to the brilliant Brass Band for heading out to Chichester to play Christmas tunes and raise money for Chestnut Tree House Children’s Hospice.
Well done to Miss Williams's Year 7 English class for reading poems to our neighbours at the Sage House Dementia Support hub in Tangmere. As part of the Poetry Together initiative launched by broadcaster and writer, Gyles Brandreth in 2019, the children read poetry they had written on the theme of happiness to the residents and then chatted to them individually and showed them their poems.
Head of English, Miss Williams, said: “It was lovely to see so many smiles on everyone’s faces! The children benefited so much from this wonderful experience and some have asked how they can get involved in volunteering at Sage House. Many thanks to Emma and Simon who made our visit so special. We really hope to do this more regularly in the future.”
Our Year 8 Chapel choristers visited Manorfield Residential Home in Chichester to sing traditional Christmas carols for the people who live there. The children loved it and the adults loved it - and it was very moving to see everyone singing together.
“This was an unforgettable experience. I felt so very grateful to be able to give these people some minutes of happiness.”
Year 8 pupil, Monica
Away in a Manger and Silent Night were the favourites and got encores with many of the residents and staff joining in. Manorfield Manager, Karen Stovall, said: “Everyone has been so excited about the children coming to visit us today. Their beautiful singing gives our residents a really euphoric and happy feeling which will last for days. There is no greater gift you can give a person and we are very, very grateful to you all for coming.”
One resident said: “It was lovely wasn’t it” Another said: “Wow!” After the boys sang their solos. The children stayed and chatted to everyone after the carol singing and a few chocolate biscuits may well have been eaten!!
Saffy said: “It was really nice to hear their stories.” Sienna said: “I hope the lovely people we met enjoyed our singing.” Archie and Benji added: “It was very heart-warming to talk and sing to all the kind and friendly people.”
Christmas cards for the elderly
We were so proud of pupils for making many, many BEAUTIFUL Christmas cards for people who are isolated or lonely. The children have seen, over time, the magical effect the cards can have and the joy they bring. This year, cards went to the elderly and to people visiting Terry’s Place, one of our new charities that provides a sanctuary for people who are lonely or isolated, requiring a bit of social and emotional stimulation and support. Let's hope that the children's drawings and letters bring much joy this Christmas.
