St Mary's Calne
The festive season brought a special event to life in the German Department. While the MIV Germanists immersed themselves in the festive spirit during their lessons, learning about German Christmas traditions and channelling their creativity into crafting wonderful gingerbread houses, the UIV girls hosted a delightful 'Weihnachten in Deutschland' session for Year 6 students at St Margaret’s Prep. This engaging and heartwarming afternoon introduced the younger pupils to the magic of German Christmas traditions while fostering a sense of community between the two schools.
The session was packed with exciting activities, beginning with an exploration of beloved German Christmas customs. The UIV girls shared the joy of advent, the charm of bustling Christmas markets, and the story of St Nikolaus, whose visits on the 6th of December bring excitement to children across Germany. They also introduced the Year 6 students to essential German vocabulary, ensuring everyone could join in the festive fun with a sprinkle of linguistic flair.
The highlight of the afternoon was a spirited singalong of the classic carol, O Tannenbaum. The hall echoed with cheerful voices as students embraced the song’s melodic celebration of the Christmas tree. To round off the event, everyone channelled their creativity by crafting beautiful tree ornaments inspired by traditional 'Lebkuchenherzen' and gingerbread men. The handmade decorations were not only a joy to create but also a charming memento of the day.
The 'Weihnachten in Deutschland' session was a resounding success, showcasing the leadership and enthusiasm of the UIV girls. Their hard work and dedication ensured the event was both educational and enjoyable, leaving a lasting impression on the Year 6 students. This lovely collaboration between the two schools embodied the true spirit of the season: coming together to share joy, learning, and creativity.
'Frohe Weihnachten' from the German Department.
Frau Melanie Davies, Head of German, MFL Department