A focus on giving this Christmas

CHILDREN at Heathcote Primary School are focussing on giving this Christmas as they participate in a reverse advent project.

Rather than a traditional advent calendar, where kids receive a treat in the 24 days leading up to Christmas, the reverse process sees items donated to be given away to those in need.

HPS principal Kate Ballantyne said she first heard about the idea last year but it was too late to implement in 2022.

“I thought it was an excellent way for children to think more about giving than receiving and to help others,” she said.

“We have been encouraging kindness and this fits in perfectly.

“Each week we give a kindness ambassador award to a junior and senior student for demonstrating an act of kindness, compassion and empathy towards others.”

Children, their families, and school staff have all embraced the reverse advent project.

“When I put it to the other staff members, they all agreed and we started collecting donations this year on 1 December,” said Ms Ballantyne.

“There is a box in each classroom and children and their families are encouraged to bring along one item each week.

“They don’t have to be big items. Everything is appreciated.”

Donations will be collected until 15 December when they will be taken to Heathcote St Vinnie’s where they will help to provide hampers for those in need.

“Children and families have been bringing in non-perishable food, toys and books,” said Ms Ballantyne.

“We are all very pleased to be able to share some Christmas joy with the extended Heathcote Community.”