Christmas came early to Coláiste Iósaef, Kil-mallock, on Friday 11th December. Santa was joined by Snow Queens, Elves, Shepherds, Grinches, Small Farmers, Walking-talking Christmas trees to name just a few and Christmas jumpers in all shapes and colours! The students came as those and much more, with many being kindly finished off by make-up and face-painting artist Jennifer Gleeson.
In support of spreading some Christmas cheer and to raise funds for a variety of charities, the school gymnasium was trans-formed with log fires, Christmas trees, photo booths, hot chocolate counters and face painting.
The aim of ‘Christm-us 2015’ was to promote an opportunity for all the students, staff and parents in Coláiste Iósaef to share time and conversation with one another. This event focused on shared con-versation between all involved by participating in pre-organised events, quizzes and ice-breakers.
To promote this non-uni-form day with a Christmas theme, each student kindly donated €2. Prizes were awarded for the best Christmas outfits per year group and staff, with the student winners being chosen by the staff and the staff winner being chosen by the Student Council.
Students were treated to hot chocolate and marsh-mallows, sausage rolls, sweets, biscuits and soft drinks, all sponsored by local businesses and served up all day by members of the Parents Association.
School principal Mr. Twomey was wholesome in his praise for the students and staff. “It’s a great event, an opportunity for the students to get to know one another outside of just their own class and for the teachers to get to know about the students’ interests and activities.”
The day was a whole school activity which culminated with a roof lifting performance of the classic Band Aid “Do they Know it’s Christmas?” by students and the Music Department which was recorded by Mr. Shinners to make into a music video.
“A lot of work was put in but it wouldn’t have been possible without the support of Xpress Stop and Nat’s Bistro, Kilmallock, who sponsored much of the food and treats prov-ided and the fantastic members of our Parent’s Association who helped out all day on hot chocolate duty and face-painting! Just to say thank you to all of those and to wish all of our students and parents, past and present, a Merry Christmas!”