This is a good idea

fully agree with your last paragraph completely, and yes most faiths can and should talk about their beliefs, but as with most subjects, forcing someone into a debate isn't the best way forward? So 'ban' Christmas (in a non faith school?) until you debate?

If that RE teacher thought there was a 'problem' there, and it could be said - he hasn't therefore taught them very well in the first place, there are far better ways to get children to engage, the usual one is with some rewards for the best posters, presentation.... 

Is interesting to read about people/ teachers encouraging children to consider the true/ religious reason for Christmas, and the excesses which concern people. In reality, Christmas reflects a Christian hijacking of mid winter/ shortest day festivals held all over the world. Commonly, those pagan festivals incorporated excess products sacrificial offered to their deities.

While I applaud and participate in action for the less fortunate at Christmas, that support is needed just as much on a freezing February night, or an arid Summer day. So, hands off our Mid winter festival, I say, but let’s keep it sensibly moderate, while helping others throughout the year.

Well said jennyc, my sentiments too. 

I completely agree about the need being there all year round. And, although this particular thread is about a school's approach to Christmas, I think schools do a pretty good job of raising awareness all year round.

The school I used to work in (and admittedly it's getting on for 10 years ago now), used to have 6 fundraising days each year - a "mufti" (non uniform) day once a term for a specific charity and an end of term fund raising day (cake sales, sponsored activities, sponge throwing at the teacher! etc) where each year group voted to choose their own charity. I often think that youngsters have more awareness of need than we give them credit for. 

yes, indeed and we had those and red nose days, and sports aid. Also a few schools also did the harvest festival. I remember that the teacher who ran one was a very old fashioned sort and use to refer to the deserving poor.

Of course that led to many comments: as opposed to what?

I've yet to be convinced that there is any reason for families to spend their hard earned money on presents for school teachers.   

I fully support the message to parents from Kate McLaughlin.  Let's hope it is taken up by schools across the whole of the UK.  

After all, I would like to think that If families could spare money for others, it would be directed towards the needy not the ?

K