Rochdale Borough Council leader Councillor Neil Emmott invited local schools to enter the competition last month. Hephzibah designed a festive scene complete with Christmas tree, presents and a snowman. Runner up, Briana, aged 9, came up with a very striking Christmas image. Hephzibah’s artwork has been made into electronic cards that have been sent by email to hundreds of individuals and organisations. Printed versions of the cards have also been posted.
Newlands is a primary special school, catering for children aged 3 to 11. Last week, Councillor Emmott visited to thank the pupils personally and present them with printed copies of the card, gift vouchers and festive treats for their classmates and teachers.
Hephzibah (middle) with her mum Delphine (left), council leader Neil Emmott (right), and the winning Christmas card.
Councillor Emmott said he was impressed by all the designs:
“It was great to see so much talent, effort and creativity shining through in each design, and it’s always difficult to pick a winner. The imagination and Christmas spirit we have seen here at Newlands School is fabulous. Thank you to all the children who took part. I was very pleased to be able to call in and thank them personally.”
As well as being used for electronic and printed Christmas cards, the pupil’s artwork will also be shared on the council’s social media channels over the festive season.
Headteacher Ms Farzana Shah (middle) with Hephzibah (left) and Briana (right).
Headteacher Ms Farzana Shah said:
“We are so pleased that Hephzibah and Briana’s work has been recognised in this way, representing all our children here at Newlands. We are very proud of them. Well done to the children and their families.”
