Students at Abbey Park School have brought festive cheer to a number of charities by raising more than £800 during the schools first-ever ‘House Christmas Market’.
The event saw pupils from the school’s five Houses – Avebury, Barbury, Kennet, Stonehenge, and Whitehorse – run festive stalls filled with Christmas-themed crafts, baked goods, sweets, and games.
Among the activities on offer to the pupilswas a snowball throwing challenge and the ever-popular stocks, where Humanities teacher Andrzej Matyla bravely volunteered to be pelted with wet sponges, much to the delight of the students.
The idea for the Christmas market came from the school’s Student Council, who pitched the concept to the Senior Leadership Team. With support from James Maddern, Assistant Principal for Personal Development, Heads of House, and tutors, the students brought their vision to life, creating an event that was both enjoyable and charitable.
Each House selected a charity to support, resulting in a total of £826.54 being distributed among five causes:
Avebury: Helen & Douglas House (£174.61)
Barbury: Prospect Hospice (£171.71)
Kennet: Young Minds (£146.25)
Stonehenge: Brighter Futures (£196.10)
Whitehorse: Wiltshire Air Ambulance (£137.87)
Jon Ward, Head of Abbey Park School, praised the students’ efforts, stating: “It was great to see everyone getting into the Christmas spirit, and I am proud of the hard work and effort that our pupils and staff have put in to make this such a success.”
James Maddern also reflected on the success of the event: “Pupils and staff planned and delivered a fantastic House event. We are all very grateful to the school community for embracing and enjoying the occasion, as well as raising a significant amount of money for their respective House charities.”
