St Columba’s pupils bring joy to care home

Christmas joy spread across the generations, when the choir from St Columba’s Catholic Primary in Wallsend brought some festive cheer to a neighbouring care home.

The 24 pupils from Years 3 to 6 at the school spent the morning at Eothen Homes, where they entertained residents with their renditions of a series of popular, festive favourites, from traditional carols to classic Christmas songs.

Carols performed by the children included ‘The Angel Gabriel’, ‘Away in a Manger’, and ‘Starry Night’; while among the Christmas numbers were ‘Jingle Bells’, ‘Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer’, and ‘Sparkle and Shine’.

“We have links with the residential home, and all classes attend on a rota and visit the residents,” said Headteacher Rachel Steinmetz.

“We normally attend every Monday, but we went on our final day of term to spread some Christmas cheer.”

St Columba’s Choir also performed this month at the Wallsend Forum Shopping Centre, where they were raising money for Marie Curie. The children were led on both occasions by St Columba’s Reception Teacher, Catherine Harris, who accompanied the group on guitar at Eothen Homes.

“We have visited every Christmas for the last few years,” Mrs Steinmetz continued. “The children love meeting the residents and seeing them sing along to the songs.”

“It is so important for us to build links with others in our community, particularly with Eothen Homes, who are our close neighbours," she added.

“It allows us to live out our faith in action by spreading the joy and peace of Christmas time with others.”