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Farmer Christmas swaps sleigh for tractor in Witnesham school visit

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For ten years, Suffolk Rural College lecturer John Attridge has been bringing festive cheer to Witnesham Primary School as Farmer Christmas, creating lasting memories for generations of pupils.

The big picture: Even during lockdown, when in-person visits weren't possible, Attridge found ways to keep the magic alive by sending video messages to ensure the tradition continued unbroken.

Children from the primary school at Witnesham get into the festive spirit with Farmer Christmas and his naughty elf helper
Children from the primary school at Witnesham get into the festive spirit with Farmer Christmas and his naughty elf helperSuffolk New College

Behind the scenes:

  • Attridge, an agricultural lecturer, transforms into "Farmer Christmas" each year

  • He shuns his sleigh and arrives at the school by tractor

  • His "naughty elf helper" Penny Rudland, a fellow college staff member, accompanies him

  • The pair spend time with each class, distributing gifts, chatting with pupils and meeting with teachers to finalise the naughty list

In their words: "It's always a joy to come along and hand out gifts," Attridge said. "It's important that we reach out to the community as much as we can and this is one of the highlights of the year for me."

The impact: The annual visit has become a cherished event for the entire school community. Executive headteacher Hannah Evans noted: "The children (and the staff) look forward to it every year and we are very grateful to Suffolk Rural College."

Farmer Christmas reveals that he is, and always will be, a Tractor Boy
Farmer Christmas reveals that he is, and always will be, a Tractor BoySuffolk New College

Between the lines: Beyond spreading Christmas cheer, Attridge hopes his visits might inspire children to consider farming in their future, combining festive fun with subtle career inspiration.

The bottom line: What started as a simple school visit has evolved into a beloved tradition, proving that modern twists on Christmas customs can create just as much magic as traditional ones.

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Double victory for St Joseph's as young debaters shine

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St Joseph's College students demonstrated exceptional public speaking prowess, claiming victory in both intermediate and senior categories at a prestigious local debate competition.

Why it matters: The double win at the Ipswich East Rotary Club 'Youth Speaks' competition secures both teams places in the Norwich debating chamber finals next month, showcasing local talent on a regional stage.

The senior team, comprising Ben (Captain), Alex (Proposition) and Ademide (Opposition), tackled whether science and logic make religion and superstition irrelevant
The senior team, comprising Ben (Captain), Alex (Proposition) and Ademide (Opposition), tackled whether science and logic make religion and superstition irrelevantSt Joseph's College

The details:

  • The college hosted the competition on Wednesday, 29 January 2025.

  • The intermediate team of Megan (Captain), Clara (Proposition) and Holly (Opposition) debated whether artificial intelligence helps or hinders human society.

  • The senior team, comprising Ben (Captain), Alex (Proposition) and Ademide (Opposition), tackled whether science and logic make religion and superstition irrelevant.

What they're saying: "Working with these students and developing their oracy and public speaking skills through debating is such a joy!" said Dr Briege Rice, Stretch and Challenge Coordinator and History and Politics teacher at St Joseph's College.

"These skills are vital in every field, fostering confidence, clear communication and critical thinking. The standard of debating was very high, and we are very proud of this extraordinary achievement of our students," she added.

The intermediate team of Megan (Captain), Clara (Proposition) and Holly (Opposition) debated whether artificial intelligence helps or hinders human society
The intermediate team of Megan (Captain), Clara (Proposition) and Holly (Opposition) debated whether artificial intelligence helps or hinders human societySt Joseph's College

The bottom line: The competition, supported by the Rotary Club, continues to foster key communication skills amongst young people through its Youth Speaks initiative, with St Joseph's teams now preparing to showcase their talents in February's finals.

Oliver Rouane-Williams speaking with an elderly couple in the town centre

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