Pupils and families enjoyed a free Christmas meal at a school.

Staff at Moulsecoomb Primary School put on the festive feast in collaboration with Nourish Contract Catering for 100 guests who enjoyed all the trimmings to the backdrop of Christmas tunes.

As well as food and music, a visit from Father Christmas also ensured that each child went home with a gift.

The annual tradition originated from The Pioneer Academy Trust wanting to make sure that everyone got a Christmas dinner during the festive period.

It is now a fixture on the calendar at all schools in the trust.

The Argus: Children were each given a gift to take homeChildren were each given a gift to take home (Image: The Pioneer Academy)

Phil Lim, a parent of a Moulsecoomb pupil, said: “It is such a lovely way to bring families and the community together and a really great event in the Christmas calendar. The children love receiving a gift and the food is wonderful.”

Adam Sutton, head teacher of Moulsecoomb Primary School, thanked everyone involved in making the meal a reality.

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“It’s brilliant that we are able to provide this Christmas family meal at no cost thanks to The Pioneer Academy, Nourish, and some really supportive community organisations,” he said.

The Argus: The school is decorated for ChristmasThe school is decorated for Christmas (Image: The Pioneer Academy Trust)

“I am grateful to our amazing staff who give up their time to put the meal on. It’s a truly memorable community event and would not be possible without them.”

Lee Mason-Ellis, CEO of The Pioneer Academy, said the meals bring families together.

“I am absolutely delighted that the Christmas family meal at Moulsecoomb Primary School was such a resounding success,” he said.

“These are fantastic occasions which really do help to bring parents and families closer together with their children’s schools, which is so important to their future education.

“It’s also just a wonderful way for all our families to celebrate Christmas together, to enjoy a great meal and some fun activities. It is always wonderful to see our children leaving an event like this so happy, and with every one of them holding onto a gift from us.”