Hillside Primary School spreads festive cheer and kindness at Hucknall’s Christmas Lights switch on

Children’s festive creation holds a gift of kindness for animals

Hucknall’s Christmas Lights switch on was made extra special this year thanks to the creative efforts of children who attend Hillside Primary & Nursery School’s Twilight Club.

Children attending the before and after school club, based on Roberts Lane in Hucknall, put their creative talents to use in the Christmas Tree Competition, entering a tree under the theme of ‘Animal Treats’.

Children proudly showcased their beautifully decorated tree, filling it with handmade ornaments and festive designs, using real treats for their furry friends. The initiative blended the club’s commitment to creating some holiday fun with acts of kindness, ensuring that both families and pets are able to share in the joy of the season

After the event, all the treats featured on the tree are to be donated to a local animal shelter, ensuring that pets in need also enjoy a little holiday cheer.

Children from Nursery age through to Year 6 worked together to make the tree stand out.

“I loved making the decorations,” said Sophie, age 7, “because I know the animals will be happy.” Fellow pupil, Liam, age 9, added, “It’s fun to help animals and make the tree look amazing at the same time!”

Rhian Richardson is Headteacher at Hillside Primary & Nursery School and she said, “We are so proud of our Twilight Club children and their thoughtful Christmas tree this year. Their kindness in creating a tree to benefit animals truly embodies all we stand for. During their creative endeavours, children attending our free Twilight Club, which runs during school breaks and also from 7:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. daily, discussed, planned and carried out their mission to create a tree which goes beyond a decorative item, -becoming a focus for caring for animals in need of support. Their involvement in the competition highlights the club’s dedication to creativity, compassion, and community spirit, fostered in a space which champions the child’s voice, in a safe and creative environment.

“Our staff and families are so proud of their children’s efforts, and for taking part in this wonderful Hucknall tradition, demonstrating how small acts can make a big difference—especially during the holiday season.”