Final Senior Assembly of the Autumn Term 2025

The pupils gathered in the hall for the final assembly of 2025. Mr Wilson welcomed everyone and explored why the Nativity remains such a powerful and relevant story today.

He explained that the Nativity accounts come from the Gospels of Matthew (c.70 CE) and Luke (c.90 CE), and invited pupils to consider which details are closest to the original accounts. Through a quiz, pupils explored common assumptions, including how long the story has been told and whether figures such as innkeepers, kings, animals, or a donkey appear in the biblical text. eagerly shared their reasoning, discovering that Jesus was born less than 2,000 years ago and that many familiar details are not actually found in the Bible.

Mr Wilson then set the story in its historical context, highlighting the strict social divisions of the time—between men and women, rich and poor, masters and slaves. The Nativity challenged these barriers, offering a message of hope that has resonated across centuries and faiths. Its unifying power was illustrated by the Christmas Truce of World War I, when soldiers laid down arms and even played football together. The children reflected on why this story remains so meaningful today.

The assembly continued with the presentation of well-earned awards, including the Head Teacher’s Achievement Award and certificates for pupils whose poetry and short stories were recognised in the ISA competition and selected for publication. Applause followed these excellent achievements.

Raffle prizes were then drawn, including “Free the Elf,” a Squishmallow, and festive hampers. Congratulations to all winners, and sincere thanks to FOCHS for their generous donations.

To conclude, Mrs Jones led a lively musical game, enjoyed by all. Before departing, the school celebrated the milestone birthdays of Vikki and Mr Wilson with cheers and applause. Mr Wilson wished everyone a happy Christmas break and encouraged pupils to treasure the memories they would make, before looking ahead to seeing everyone in the New Year.