Celebrating the Season Sustainably

Last Christmas, Fryer discovered the joy of wreath making when they were invited to design a sustainable garland by Sixth Form Prefects. This year, Eco Schools Leader, Jo Toovey, and her student elves, returned the festive cheer by foraging flora from the Park for our Year 9s and Sixth Formers to create their very own Advent ornaments.

Again, adjudicating on the criteria of originality and creativity, panache and skill, sustainability, festivity, colour and smell, the judges were suitably impressed by the quality and diversity of submissions, which each offered something unique.

The panel, made up of Head, Matthew Judd, Assistant Head: Co-Curricular and Outreach, Natasha Coccia, Head of Sixth Form, Helen Taylor, Head of Year 9, Sally Saunders and Sustainability Prefects, Angelika and Rosie, each brought their different areas of expertise to the judging.

From fir and dried orange to crisp packet bows, paper cranes and dreamcatchers, some wreaths were memorable for their glorious extravagance and others their traditional charm, whilst one stood out for its dedication to indigenous groups.

Jo commented “All of the students that took part looked like they were having fun getting creative. There were lots of examples of recycled, sustainable and biodegradable products being used. It’s great to add some sparkle to the Park.”

Oliver Staines, Head of Geography, was delighted to share the news with his Tutor group that they had been awarded first place for their wreath decorated with green and red recycled crisp packets. The Year 9s were even more excited to see their wreath hung on the entrance to Old School. Additionally, Nicola Forshaw’s and Claire Gulliver’s Tutor groups were commendable runners up.

Oliver’s Tutee, Hoi in Year 9 commented “Because the topic was sustainability, we used potato chip bags to make bow ties which was part of my favourite inspiration of the wreath making.” Lucas added “My favourite thing about the wreath is the acorn hung in the middle!”

The garlands are now being enjoyed by everybody as they hang on buildings around the School.