Longsands Academy students hand over Christmas hampers to foodbank

Debbie Hannah Towns with Linden Beattie. (Image: Archant)

Pupils have been involved in a Christmas hamper challenge which took the form of a reverse advent calendar. Each tutor group worked to prepare a hamper, taking differing approaches in order to do so.

The school was presented with a list of items the foodbank needed and other items which it hoped would add a bit of festive cheer to the usual food hampers. Some form groups agreed a shopping list and contributed to a central pot with a number of them going to the supermarket and others agreed to bring in items.

Sixth form student Hannah Towns, who is also a Student Voice co-ordinator, worked with staff members Kate Saunders and Marie Todd to encourage the wider student body to become involved. Hannah also works at Wyboston Lakes and mentioned the Christmas hampers to colleagues.

Linden Beattie, hotel manager at Wyboston Lakes, was moved by the campaign and was keen to support the scheme and made a “generous contribution”.

“The generosity of the students and the care by which the hampers were prepared and decorated was heart-warming,” said headteacher Martin Paine.

“Many of them included cards of best wishes and well-being for the recipients, and thoughtful touches such as crackers. We are very proud of all of the students and staff who have been involved in this worthwhile cause at this time of the year.”

David Pacini, a trustee of the St Neots Foodbank, added: “It’s an overwhelming donation. It epitomises the generosity of the school and reflects the true meaning of Christmas, which is about giving and not receiving.”