St Brendan's Moodle

As the frost twinkled and the snow threatened, St Brendan's glowed like a festive beacon on the 17th December for its annual Senior Citizens' Christmas party.

Thanks to our sponsors Sainsbury's, Co-op and Tesco, the refectory was gleaming red and gold with decorations as the smell of warm mince pies and spiced Christmas cake filled the air. We had tap dancing reindeer, heavenly choirs, jazz and soul bands and even a visit from the main man in red himself! That's right, Father Christmas made an appearance and distributed gifts amongst our guests with a cheery 'ho, ho, ho' and a hearty belly chuckle. Even the strapping Bristol Rovers apprentices attended and assisted with both serving and caring for our senior citizens.

As is traditional, what made the day so special was our students who were all fabulous and festive. Almost one hundred students showed up, many in fancy 'chrimbo' dress, and helped serve and assist the visitors. Our student waiters and waitresses served up rolls made by our fabulous refectory staff. Thanks to our generous sponsors, we also had mince pies, Christmas cake, juice, tea and lashings of festive cheer.

The choir sang traditional carols and some more contemporary pieces, while Musical Theatre students performed extracts from the Phantom of the Opera score beautifully. Dance performed two numbers, one of which was in full reindeer attire and the other in their jim-jams, no less. After tea, we rolled out our soul band, which performed several numbers each much to the delight of the onlookers who were all clapping and tapping their approval. In fact, our guests displayed huge smiles all afternoon and gushed regarding the brilliance of St Brendan's. Thanks to everyone who took the time to get involved in the day, whether as a dancer, singer, musician, waiter, fairy or helper. The day was a runaway success, everyone had a wonderful time and Christmas really arrived with a big, glittering, festive bang.