The annual Christmas market at St John’s school leatherhead caters to a wide range of ages and people. A plethora of stalls fill the dining hall and the performing arts center. Each of the ten houses at the school ran their own stand, selling their chosen goods and then giving the money to Charity. There was something for everyone. The Hawkins stand selling handmade bracelets and Hawkins’ wax melts, and the Gloucester stand selling delicious dog treats. However, there was not just student stands; the market was brimming with jewelry stalls, handmade candles, photobooks, cozy winter clothes and Christmas gifts for everyone.
The market was not just shopping stalls, it also provided many fun game opportunities such as the snowboarder game (the aim is to try and balance on a snowboard whilst it moves up and down) and mini bowling game. As the market ran from 9am until 3pm, there was a variety of food choices. Including the presence of the much-loved Dough Shack pizza truck that made fresh pizzas for visitors. For non-pizza lovers, there was a café for sausage rolls and pasties, along with many drink stalls selling warm hot chocolates and coffees.
As the market runs every year, I spoke to some of the visitors and asked for their opinion on what was good, and what they think could improve. One student said that “The market had a good range if things for parents, but I feel like they should have had a few more options for boys. Also, more products for teens and a few more food options.” Hopefully these thoughts will be taken on board for next year’s fair.
Whilst the student stands were raising money for charity, the St John’s parents’ association was also selling many products, such as Krispie Kreme doughnuts and St John’s school blankets. The doughnuts sold rapidly with children flocking towards the Hawkins stand to grab a treat. The market was also helped greatly by the contribution of homemade baked goods from parents and students. These delightfully delicious treats were a highlight of many stalls.
Some people believed that the gloomy autumnal would stop people coming to the market, however, no one was put off and the market was filled with exited shoppers. One visitor remarked that “The Christmas market really united the St John’s community. It brought students, parents and teachers together to celebrate the start of Christmas.”
The money raised by the student stalls will help greatly with so many charities, bringing joy and happiness during the cold winter.
