S
e
n
i
o
r
C
h
r
i
s
t
m
a
s
C
e
l
e
b
r
a
t
i
o
n
s
Advent Carol Service
The Advent Carol Service at the Chapel marked the start of the season of Advent by taking the congregation on a journey from darkness into light. The Choir started at the West end of the Chapel with the Gregorian responsory O Magnum Mysterium. As they processed eastwards during the first Carol, candles were lit, and the light spread through the Chapel. The readings, carols and anthems that followed set the tone for a reflective yet joyful celebration of the season. As the service finished with the singing of O come, all ye faithful, the tone was set for the journey towards Christmas itself.
Christmas End of Term Celebrations
The last two days of term saw lots of Christmas celebrations. The houses have been abuzz with Christmas parties and activities in house, and the annual Christmas Congo in Chapel with Mr Matthews, who as always, dressed up for the occasion.
In St John’s parents joined in on the celebrations, enjoying a nice cosy evening in house with some wonderful, mulled wine. St John’s also enjoyed their evening Christmas Dinner, cooked by Sodexo as they spent the evening getting into the holiday spirit.
On the last day of term, the Senior School hosted its grand Christmas Lunch in the dining hall, where students and staff shared a delicious Christmas lunch before departing until the new year.
Festival of Nine Lessons and Carols
The annual Festival of Nine Lessons and Carols made its return this year with three services in the senior school-St Johns, Day and Boarding. As always this was a fantastic carol service for pupils, staff and families.
The choir sung beautifully throughout all the services. This year’s carols included a congregational carol of O Little town of Bethlehem and Silent Night, and the firm favourite of the Ukrainian Bell Carol sung by the choir.
Christmas Cross Country
Hurst’s elite runners showcased their talents at this year’s cross-country event, navigating a challenging 5.6 km course through the fields. Each house was represented by six junior and six senior runners, all eager to earn valuable points for their teams.
The course conditions were exceptionally muddy, which was a test for the runners, with lots of them finishing caked in it! All students gave it their best efforts with George G from claimed victory in the boys category for Crescent House, while Audrey V-S, also from Remove, triumphed in the girls’ race for Pelican House.
