Hampers, help, and heartfelt giving
This season, generosity and goodwill were in full swing at The Olive School, Small Heath, as pupils turned their energy and creativity into acts of kindness for families, local organisations, and those most in need.
Pupils and staff prepared 25 large, thoughtfully packed hampers - brimming with festive treats, essentials, and personal touches – worth approximately £1,000. These were shared with a range of local organisations, including Abbey Court Care Home, Zoe’s Place Baby Hospice, Hay Mills Fire Station, Birmingham Crisis Centre, St Basil’s Charity for the homeless, As-Suffa Outreach, and Migrant Help UK, spreading comfort and care across the community. The hampers were made possible through a combination of fundraising efforts and generous contributions, alongside almost 500 items that were also donated to the school’s own foodbank.
Generosity extended beyond hampers, with pupils and staff collecting clothing donations for St Basil’s and the Birmingham Crisis Centre, providing warmth and practical support to individuals and families facing hardship. In addition, the school prepared and distributed 120 hot meals to As-Suffa Outreach, offering nourishment and comfort to those experiencing challenging circumstances in the local community.
Fuelled by their charitable spirit, pupils also led a series of lively fundraising initiatives to support the Winter Gift Programme. Staff-prepared meals sold after school and multiple samosa sales added a savoury twist to giving, while the funds raised, combined with generous donations, helped fill the hampers and stock the foodbank. Through creativity, collaboration, and commitment, the school community turned energy and enthusiasm into tangible support, spreading care, warmth, and kindness throughout the local area.
Reflecting on the school’s efforts, Shawkat Chowdhury, Principal at The Olive School, Small Heath, said:
"It’s wonderful to see our pupils channel their creativity, energy, and generosity into supporting our local community. From preparing hampers and meals to leading fundraising initiatives, they have shown how teamwork and kindness can make a real difference to those who need it most."
The Winter Gift Programme is an annual campaign which sees pupils and staff from every Star Academies school unite to participate in a broad range of charitable giving, acts of kindness and volunteering; all with one simple aim – to make sure no one faces the challenges of winter alone.
