Students at Woodham Academy got in to the Christmas spirit last week by donating hampers to local elderly residents and families in need.
Each tutor group took part in a hamper competition bringing in food and gifts from home and creating their own hampers. Some wrapped boxes and added bows, some bought large decorated boxes and tied them in ribbon and one tutor group relied on a student with a skill. Year 10 student, John Clough, made a wooden crate with the help of his grandad for his tutor group to use as their hamper. Finished with cellophane and a large bow this made a beautiful hamper for someone to receive.
The longstanding Woodham tradition of donating hampers and hand delivering them to those in the community is one which the school hopes to continue, as well as working alongside the local food banks. One recipient of the decorated gifts was Mrs Musgrave, who said: ‘This is the second year I have received a gift from the academy and it is very much appreciated.’
A number of the hampers were also donated to the County Durham Foodbank which operates from St. Clare’s Church on Wednesdays and Fridays. Ernie Temple, Foodbank Coordinator, said: ‘We are so very grateful and overwhelmed by the generosity and support shown by the students at Woodham Academy.’
Tutor groups with the best decorated hampers received prizes at the end of the day.

Donations to Food bank Dec 15 Food bank hampers Dec 15