Ambitious sixth form students at Derby Cathedral School have successfully orchestrated the school's first-ever Christmas market, generating a fantastic £2,257 for charity. The event, entirely planned and run by around 150 Year 12 pupils, provided festive joy for the entire school community while supporting good causes.
Student-Led Festive Extravaganza
The Christmas market was organised as a key component of the students' applications for the Archbishop's Young Leaders Award, a national character and leadership programme. Taking full responsibility, the young organisers spent months devising activities, marketing the event, and creating everything from scratch.
Every pupil at the school on Great Northern Road – part of the Derby Diocesan Academy Trust – was given time away from lessons to enjoy the festivities. The market boasted an impressive 35 stalls spread across several large reception areas, offering a wide array of games and treats.
A Market for Everyone
Activities ranged from goal shooting and 'Snowball Mayhem' to 'Knock the Elf off the Shelf'. Students showcased their culinary skills with myriad food and drink stalls, selling items like bubble tea, muffins, hot chocolate, and non-alcoholic mojitos. To ensure inclusivity, the school provided each pupil with a free ticket, with the option to buy more for 50p.
Agnese Feierabende, a 17-year-old A-level student, helped organise an 'Eye Spy' game where participants guessed teachers from photos of just their eyes. She highlighted the communal spirit: "We have all got into groups and made everything ourselves... There's a stall for everyone, and everyone in school gets something to make them feel happy. It's a win-win situation for everyone!"
Leadership, Joy, and Community Impact
Headteacher Andrew Brown praised the event as a perfect, joyful end to the term and a reflection of the school's ethos. "Our sixth formers are role models of what we want our school to be," he said. "This is giving them experience for their next steps and it's a lovely thing to be part of."
Rae Whitehouse, the sixth form's personal development lead, noted this was the first time all Year 12s were put forward for the Archbishop's Award. She commended their commitment and creativity, stating they had "put their heart into it" by baking and making items rather than buying them.
The funds raised will support Ashbourne Playaway charity and vulnerable families connected to Derby Cathedral School. Dr Sarah Clark, CEO of the Derby Diocesan Academy Trust, congratulated the Year 12 students for putting on a clearly very successful event that got every pupil into the Christmas spirit.
