HABERDASHERS Monmouth have been submerged into the Christmas spirit throughout the December period, with celebrations, performances and community events lighting up every corner of school life.

Carol services were presented across the school, including the London Alumni Carol Service setting a warm tone for the season, many of which took place in St Mary’s Church, Monmouth.

The Prep School raised the roof with traditional favourites such as Good King Wenceslas and Once in Royal David’s City. They performed a version of Joseph by former Monmouth resident Jake Thackery which is being performed over the Christmas period. All the collections from this will be supporting the Mayor’s Fund, to help residents affected by the recent flooding in Monmouth.

Nursery launched the Christmas celebrations with a magical visit to Father Christmas at Monmouth Library, followed by their traditional Nativity.

Key Stage one presented a global nativity, reflecting the international character of their school community. Children shared the customs and festive traditions of families from Europe, Australia and Malawi, bringing cultural richness to the performance.

The annual Christmas Cake Competition was back at Haberdashers’ Monmouth School showcasing an array of talent across the year 10 Food and Nutrition GCSE students.

The year 9 students crafted chocolate yule logs, and year 8 created shortbread in Mr Goodson’s lessons. Their decorations, from detailed icing to seasonal themes, all made a cheerful and competitive week in the kitchen.

To further the Christmas spirit, The Boarders’ Christmas Dinner took place on Friday December 5. St Catherine’s Dining Hall was transformed with fairy lights, handmade table pieces and a glowing tree.

Boarders voted for a menu of Caesar salad, followed by steak, chips, peas, garlic mushrooms, onion rings and peppercorn sauce. Dessert was a display of roulade, iced snowflake biscuits and gingerbread-topped cupcakes.

Raffles for pupils and staff added excitement, with prizes from vouchers to a bespoke cake. Celebrations continued in houses with quizzes, games, Secret Santa and the Boarders’ Entertainment show.

This evening captured the joy and togetherness of the season.

The sixth form students provided care and generosity as they visited the William Jones Care Home to deliver gift cards provided by The Haberdashers’ Company. Their conversations and kindness were warmly received and strengthened their ties and the wider community.

The Christmas season also showcased this year’s Senior Play A Christmas Carol which delivered storytelling and another festive showcase was brought by years 3-13 called As Light Breaks, We Dance.

Students also created Christingles, exploring the symbolism and message of hope they represent. The activity offered a hands-on moment to reflect on the meaning of Christmas.

The annual Plum Pudding Regatta also brought together vibrancy and Christmas cheer to the river. Old Monmothians joined the current pupils in mixed crews, racing eights for senior athletes and octuples for J14s and beginners, and each boat embraced a festive theme. Cake sales and donations raised £253 for the Mayor’s Flood Fund.

To finish off the Christmas term, a Christmas lunch was enjoyed from Prep school up to the sixth form. Students enjoyed traditional turkey with all the trimmings, followed by Christmas puddings and a chocolate yule log, crackers, colourful hats and festive fun.