Independent senior school, St Albans, hosted its annual Christmas party for the elderly community recently, with 75 guests from five local care homes, two church groups as well as local residents from across the Hertfordshire region in attendance. As part of the school’s partnership and community link programme which has been running since 2009, the much-anticipated event is enjoyed by both pupils and guests alike.
Lower School pupils enjoyed reading a selection of Christmas-themed poems to the residents, while the school’s senior choir performed a range of upbeat festive carols creating a warm and cheery sing-along atmosphere. St Albans School Sixth Formers served a delicious afternoon tea to the guests as part of the celebrations. Giving back to the local community is a core value for the school and the pupils also benefit hugely from spending time with the residents.
Stuart Taylor, Director of Bursaries, Partnerships and Community Link said “Our annual celebration was a really superb team effort. We had a lot of positive feedback and happy faces during and after the party. Our brilliant pupils were exemplary hosts, demonstrating kindness, responsibility and a genuine interest in those they looked after. Our guests singing with our school choir was truly a highlight and an uplifting display of connection across generations and a true celebration of community spirit.”
Care homes in attendance were Verulam House, Tara’s Retreat, Alban Manor Nursing Home, Vesta Lodge and Lyndon House Residential Home. Church Groups included St Stephen's Church Lunch Club and St Luke's Church Group.
Ivy-Violet, who is 98 years old and attended the party for the sixteenth year commented, “I’ve been looking forward to this all year! The singing, the company, the whole atmosphere - it’s always such a joy.”
Avis from St Stephen’s Church Lunch Club agreed, “It’s such a pleasure to spend time with the young people. They’re so kind, chatting with us, helping us get settled and serving tea. And the food is delicious!”
St Albans School prides itself on encouraging its pupils to be of service to others, evidenced in part by its Community Link Programme, whereby Sixth Form pupils volunteer each week, assisting elderly residents in the local area and volunteering in Special schools and Charity shops.
Joe Silvester, Head at St Albans School commented, “We are delighted to have opened our doors again this year to our local community for our annual Christmas party. Being of service to others is something we take great pride in at St Albans School. Our motto, ‘Non nobis nati’ (Born not for ourselves), is a guiding principle that our pupils are encouraged to embody in meaningful ways. It was wonderful to see this spirit in action during our Christmas party and to witness everyone enjoying themselves."