Video celebrating Christmas as travel expenses rise

Three countryside schools have opted for a virtual Christmas event due to increasing transportation expenses. Normally, students would gather in Somerset for a festive celebration, but school officials noted that doing so this year would incur costs running into the thousands. Instead, the schools have produced three separate videos, which will be combined into a single presentation to mark the holiday.

Hannah Maggs, executive headteacher at Cameley Primary School in Temple Cloud, described the virtual celebration as a "wonderful way" to convey the Christmas story. The schools aim for this approach to allow students to share their Christian message, while also reducing costs and minimizing environmental impact.

Alongside Maggs, Stacey Griffin has been assisting the pupils in preparing the recordings. The participating schools include Marksbury Primary School and St Mary's Primary School in Writhlington.

Maggs explained that the deputy headteacher selected the song Midnight, highlighting its focus on the true meaning of Christmas. She added that students have been enthusiastic about performing together, and eagerly anticipate the experience.

Griffin, who oversees religious education at Cameley, emphasized that the celebration will also reflect on those who may be alone during the holidays, while fostering a sense of community. "The staff enjoy it, the children enjoy it, and the energy is infectious," she said.

Author: Sophia Brooks