OVER 130 students erupted with excitement when Santa arrived at the annual Christmas in July Celebration at Tea Gardens Public School last week.

As Santa made his way through the packed school hall, students continually stopped the bearded man in red to ask the question, “Have I been naughty or nice?”

With wide-eyes and beaming smiles, the children flocked to Santa patiently waiting their turn to whisper, “All I want for Christmas.”

Students from Kindergarten to Year 6 sat down together at tables decorated with colourful tinsel, bows and Christmas baubles.

Laughter, chit-chat and conversation created a festive vibe around the hall as a traditional baked dinner complete with dessert was served to the appreciative crowd of students and staff.

Student Caitlin Condie said she thoroughly enjoyed the Christmas in July celebration.

“It was really good, I liked being able to enjoy lunch with my friends,” she said.

“My favourite part of it was seeing Santa.”

The Christmas in July Celebration was organised by the P&C Committee with 16 parents and community volunteers on hand throughout the day to assist.

Principal Mr Mark Clemson said the Christmas lunch was thoroughly enjoyed by both the students and staff of the school.

“Each year, we have all the students and staff sit down for a lunch, served by our P&C Committee who have given up their time to organise and allow this to happen,” Mr Clemson said.

“It is a very enjoyable experience for everyone, especially for the students who get to sit with their friends and see Santa.”

Mr Clemson told News Of The Area the staff and students are very grateful to the P&C who organise and work at events such as the Christmas in July lunch.

“Without their efforts, we would not be able to have these experiences,” Mr Clemson said.

Students and staff are already eagerly looking forward to next year’s Christmas in July luncheon.