College News

The magic of Christmas

Students and staff, with guests from Age UK in Darlington, came together in the Hall to celebrate Christmas with a very moving service organised by Travel and Tourism students, supported by students from the Religious Studies and Music Departments. The theme the students chose was Christmas Around the World and the service was led by Lynda Gough, QE’s Chaplain.  A Christmas Giving Tree was the focal point in the Hall and gifts of food from students were placed around it. The gifts were for the 700 Club who are working in Darlington to relieve poverty.

Children from Dunn Street Primary School in Jarrow came along to sing Christmas songs and tell the Christmas Story, the College Choir led the communal carol singing and students and staff gave insight into Christmas traditions in countries such as Germany, Zambia and Romania. The celebrations were rounded off with mulled wine and a range of festive treats from all over the world.

Julia Redican, Head of RS, said:

‘It was a lovely occasion with a real sense of community. The children from Dunn Street Primary were fantastic and gave a real sense of what Christmas is all about – the magic of Christmas. The students generously gave gifts of food for poverty relief and a collection has raise just less than £300 for the charity. I’d like to thank everyone who was involved and wish them all a very Happy Christmas.’

Nancy Wall, Head of Travel & Tourism, adds:

‘The students worked hard and I was proud of them. One of our guests from Age UK said that coming to the service had made her Christmas and that comment made the occasion even more special.’