Tavistock College students take a sustainable community approach to Christmas

By Tavistock_Col | Friday, December 11, 2009, 14:56

TAVISTOCK College students have put a unique spin on The Friends of St Eustachius’ Christmas Tree Festival – by covering an entire tree in recyclable handmade decorations.

The Tavistock College recyclable Christmas tree.
Each decoration is recyclable or made from recycled materials.

The college purchased a seven foot pine – representing each year of college life – with one foot being decorated by each year group. In their tutor groups, students designed and made Christmas ornaments from recycled and recyclable materials as part of the college’s drive to become sustainable.

Organiser Eva Pearson said: “As the largest educational institute and employer in the area, we wanted to ensure as many people as possible had a chance to be involved in this festive tree decorating.

“Key Stage 3 students designed and made decorations for the first three feet of the tree, Key Stage 4 students for the next two feet and Post 16 students the top two feet. Staff also joined in and made decorations to be interspersed around the tree.”

The college’s Senate, comprised of student representatives, arranged the recycled ornaments after collecting them from the tutor groups.

Senator Jess Batten said: “I really enjoyed decorating the pine, the church looked fantastic with all of the festive trees.

“We used all recycled decorations, so that we showed a message as well as having a well decorated tree. Our tree was certainly different compared to the rest in the church but I am very proud of our achievement.”

Mrs Pearson said the decorations reflected the diversity of interests, experiences and achievements within the college community.

She added: “The tree represents our festive wishes to the community. From all at Tavistock College we wish you a happy and peaceful festive season.”