Wardy's Christmas Tree welcomes donations

Wardy's Newhaven College Christmas Tree has been a much-loved tradition of giving since 1999.

This year, the College is once again inviting the community to help make Christmas special for local families.

New, unwrapped gifts for children of all ages are welcome and can be placed under the tree in the main reception before Monday December 8.

All donations will be distributed by St Vincent de Paul, who focus on sharing the spirit of Christmas and extending support throughout our local community.

Wardy's Newhaven College Christmas Tree began 26 years ago when teacher and Deputy Principal John Ward (retired) called upon Newhaven College families to think of others at Christmas by donating a gift to families in need.

The number of families donating gifts increases each year and members of the public are also welcome to come in and place gifts under the tree.

The tree is located at Newhaven College's main reception and the students visit regularly to see what has been donated.

"Learning about the giving tree encourages our students to think of others", John said.

"It is a living example of our College values of Respect, Empathy and Responsibility that they can relate to."

Linda Sparkes from St Vincent de Paul Cowes Conference appreciates the generosity of the College and wider community.

"Every year, gift donations under Newhaven College's Christmas Tree are greater than the year before.

We are so grateful to all the families who give so generously so that all children across our community can enjoy Christmas."

Newhaven College thanks San Remo IGA and Aldi Cowes for their support, along with the College and broader communities.

Every year, the College is overwhelmed by the generosity of families and community members who place gifts under the tree.