Derry's Oakgrove IPSN kicks off festive season with joy and community spirit
From the Daily Santa Mile to a generous toy collection, Oakgrove pupils spread joy and promote positive wellbeing throughout the Derry community this festive season
The pupils of Oakgrove Integrated Primary and Nursery School embraced the festive spirit this week with a series of heartwarming activities designed to spread joy and promote wellbeing.
As part of the celebrations, the Board of Governors generously funded a FREE Christmas dinner for every pupil, ensuring that no child missed out during the ongoing cost-of-living crisis. Pupils arrived in school wearing their Christmas and winter jumpers, complete with festive accessories, adding a splash of seasonal colour to the day.
In addition to the celebrations, all pupils took part in the Daily Santa Mile, an initiative supported by the Health Trust through The Daily Mile™.
This simple, free activity encouraged the children to walk, jog, run, or wheel outdoors at their own pace, boosting physical, mental, and social health. During the mile, pupils shared Christmas cheer with the local community by handing out candy canes and chocolate treats to members of the public.
The festive goodwill didn’t stop there. On Friday last, December 5, Primary 5 pupil Yazmin proudly handed over the school’s toy collection to the River Radio Christmas Toy Appeal, helping to bring joy to families in need.
Delighted and very proud of the pupils and staff, the Principal Mrs Ashley Donaghey said: ‘Christmas is a time for kindness and community and we were delighted to see our pupils not only enjoying festive fun but also giving back and promoting positive wellbeing. These activities remind us all of the importance of generosity and togetherness.’
Oakgrove IPSN encourages other schools and early years settings across Northern Ireland to join in initiatives like the Daily Mile, celebrating the benefits of physical activity for health and happiness.