Thinking of others
Christmas for Shung Tak Catholic English College is all about giving and sharing. Last month, for the 16th time, the English department took part in Operation Santa Claus (OSC) - the annual charity fund-raising campaign co-founded by the South China Morning Post and RTHK.
The school raised HK$38,888 from various activities; one included students donating HK$1 to nominate a teacher to play in student-teacher football and dodge-ball matches.
A new fund-raiser was Lunchtime Song Dedication, where students and teachers could dedicate the latest hits by pop stars to people for only HK$1 per song, or include a message for an extra HK$1.
The lunch time on December 17 was extended to make way for the school's fun fair, where students could buy food and drinks from stalls set up by various classes, clubs and houses and the Parent-Teacher Association, with all proceeds going to OSC. On the same day, the senior singing contest attracted crowds of students, who donated HK$3 for ordinary seats, or $10 for VIP seats.
Joshua Wong and Yoyo Chin, Shung Tak Catholic English College
Dress Differently Week - a charity fund-raising event - has become something of a tradition at South Island School. It is well supported by senior section students in Year 12 and 13. The event, which raised money for Operation Santa Claus and three other local causes, involved students dressing up in different daily themes. Students also gathered sponsors beforehand to support their efforts.
Students had to raise a minimum of HK$100, but people proved even more generous. Last year, more than HK$30,000 was collected by 420 senior section students, with about HK$13,000 donated to OSC. This year the school pledged HK$15,000.
The week, from December 13 to 17, caused a real fashion frenzy. Monday was 'future aspirations', such as mad scientists and rock stars, Tuesday was 'objects' theme day, with lamps, iPods - even a packet of M&Ms. Wednesday involved 'fairy tale characters and superheroes', Thursday was for 'twins, triplets or groups' - there were a packet of Crayolas, some Rubix cubes and two pieces of a broken heart, while Friday featured Christmas-themed costumes.
Yasmin Deal, chairwoman of the senior section charity committee, South Island School
