The annual event, which began four years ago, aims to provide a festive day of entertainment and a traditional Christmas lunch and company to members of the community who would otherwise be spending Christmas Day alone.
Dunottar’s catering staff gave up their time to cook a tasty Christmas lunch. After this, there was carol singing, led by pupils. A tense and competitive day of bingo rounded the day off.
Around 70 students helped at the event at which one gentleman was celebrating his 88th birthday. He received a rousing rendition of Happy Birthday and a beautifully decorated birthday cake.
Volunteer parents, staff and community members transported their guests to and from the event. The Redhill and Reigate residents took home a bag of gifts, paid for by pupils.
Nicola Wintle, who is both a teacher at Dunottar and has two children at the school, commented: “We were extremely privileged to spend the day with our guests. The students learn so much during their chats as they host the event, and there was a powerful sense of community in the room. It shows the pupils the difference their actions can make to the lives of others. We look forward to this day all year—and 2018 lived up to our expectations!”
Headmaster, Mark Tottman, commented: “Dunottar is a school with family values, a caring ethos and a warm heart. Caring at Christmas brings the whole school community together for an inspiring purpose.”