Students from a specialist school in St Ives have delivered a heartwarming dose of festive spirit to young patients spending the holiday season in hospital. Pupils from Aurora Fairway School visited Hinchingbrooke Hospital to distribute gifts specifically chosen for children on the Holly Ward.
A Compassionate Decision by the Student Council
The initiative was driven entirely by the school's student council, who were keen to launch a meaningful community project. Elizabeth Paul, the assistant special educational needs coordinator, explained the pupils' motivation. They found it difficult to imagine what it would be like for a child to wake up in hospital on Christmas Day. Their solution was to "sprinkle a little bit of seasonal joy and happiness" on the ward, hoping to help the young patients momentarily forget their illnesses.
Instead of focusing on their own Christmas fayre at the school, which included games and a tombola, the council decided this year was about giving. With the full support of school staff, who cancelled their traditional Secret Santa to contribute funds, the project gained momentum.
Learning Through Giving: A Practical Curriculum
The gift-giving mission was seamlessly integrated into the students' educational experience. Aurora Fairway School supports autistic young people aged 11-16 and those with complex learning needs, including social, emotional, and mental health requirements.
Elizabeth Paul highlighted how the project fed directly into the curriculum. The student council meticulously researched toys, visited a shop to see them in person, and calculated costs. "They really enjoyed having to work things out and it provided a good opportunity for them to taste a bit of independence," she said. The presents were selected directly from the Holly Ward's Amazon wish list, ensuring they were both appropriate and desired.
Accompanied by headteacher Julie Sadler and Elizabeth Paul, the students personally delivered the gifts to the ward, which provides both elective and emergency care for children up to the age of 17.
A Heartfelt Impact on Hospital Community
The gesture was met with immense gratitude from the hospital staff. Zoe Wilkinson, the hospital's play service coordinator, expressed her thanks for the "incredible generosity" and the "imaginative way" the school chose to support their young patients.
She confirmed that the donations would play a significant role in brightening the children's stay, stating unequivocally that "These gifts will most certainly help to bring some seasonal cheer to our younger patients." The visit from the St Ives students provided more than just physical presents; it delivered a powerful message of community solidarity and compassion during the festive period.
