Bellsbank Primary School arranged a reverse Advent calendar this year so students could see in action the importance of giving back at Christmas time.

After learning about the meaning of Christmas, and discussing with P1s the importance of giving and not just receiving during this period, a group of teachers put their heads together and came up with a way that kids could do just that.

Mrs Waddle, Miss Reid, Mrs Russell and Mrs Roberts brought in food donations for the duration of Advent, and if the children wanted to donate anything, they could.

But staff could not have anticipated the influx of generosity that came thereafter.

A school spokesperson said: “We had a discussion about Christmas with the children in P1 and why it is important to give and not just receive.

“We also talked about food banks and helping others in need.

“The donations included books from staff and 24 selection boxes along with a huge amount of food.

“We also asked Elaine Orr Stewart from The Zone food bank in Dalmellington to pop up and receive our amazing donation from some of the P1 pupils.

“We may be a small school but we have the biggest hearts as this will benefit so many families in our community.

“A staff raffle was also organised via the fabulous Mrs Russell and we raised a whopping £50, too. Well done team Bellsbank.”

Irene Rowan,The Zone’s chairperson, commented: “It is really nice to help other people who are less fortunate. We were so delighted to attend on the day and thanked the children very much.”