Festivities in full swing at community Christmas dinner

Following the success of its first event last year, Outwood Grange Academy has successfully hosted its second Community Christmas Dinner, welcoming local care home residents for an afternoon of festive fun, food, and intergenerational interaction.

A total of 23 guests were in attendance, including 17 care home residents and their carers, who were treated to a memorable afternoon. The residents came from three local care homes: Lofthouse Grange and Lodge Care Home, West Ridings Care Home, and Ashby Lodge Care Home.

The event was a true team effort, made possible by dedicated students from various year groups, school staff members and colleagues from ICS, the academy’s cleaning provider, which also donated presents for the residents.

The afternoon began with academy staff collecting the guests using the academy minibuses. Once seated, attendees were delighted by a series of student performances, showcasing the academy’s talent with a choir, soloists, a pianist, and a flautist.

Following the entertainment, guests enjoyed a traditional Christmas lunch and dessert, which was meticulously plated and served by the students. After lunch, activities continued with a lively game of bingo. To finish the day, each resident received a selection box and presents.

The impact of the event was clear in the feedback from the attendees. Dorothy, a resident who attended, said:

“It was a lovely day, I can't wait to come next year.”

Rebecca Brickwood, business manager at Outwood Grange Academy, who was responsible for organising the event, highlighted the profound educational and community value of the dinner:

“We hold the annual Christmas lunch because it is a vital bridge between generations. It is an opportunity for us to share festive cheer with the foundations of our community, but critically, it allows our students to interact and serve. This experience teaches them respect and empathy, and the immense value of spending time with the elderly generation; enriching their education far beyond the classroom walls.”

The school looks forward to continuing this tradition next year, fostering strong connections between its students and the elderly residents of the local community.