Theale Green Community School sixth form students hosted a hugely successful party for the local pensioners of Theale village.

Over 100 old people, many well into their eighties and nineties were brought to the school by minibus, many from the local homes in Theale – Trafalgar Court, Elizabeth Court, Leonard Court and Play Platt House.

The proceedings were run entirely by the Sixth formers, two of whom were assigned to each guest to see they were properly looked after during their stay and also to tell them of what goes on in the school and some of their attitudes about school life!

The old people were treated to an afternoon of bingo, cabaret, tea, sandwiches and delicious gateaux (all made by the students), carol singing and finally by a visit from Father Christmas (see photograph) and the Tree Fairies, bearing Christmas presents for every one of the guests.

The cabaret in particular had everyone in fits of laughter at the many sketches devised by the students. Mr Phillip Hull led the carol singing in his own highly entertaining way, including an energetic rendering of the 12 Days of Christmas! It was very warming to see everyone, young and old alike, joining in and having a thoroughly good time. The main hall roof was almost raised by the singing!.

This event is one of the highlights of the year for the old folks and also for the Sixth formers, and it is cheering to see the efforts made by many to ‘get to the show’. Once again, Alma Hutchings was the oldest visitor at 99 years young, but there were several not far behind either!

The whole event was very successful in getting the school and the community together. There are many plans within the school to expand such events into the new Millennium.