Mid Norfolk school learn of Christian shoebox charity 

Heartwood School welcomed Mark and Debra Watkins from Operation Christmas Child to lead a special school collective worship about this year’s Shoebox Appeal.
 

Their visit came through a connection with FOL, Fountain of Life Church in Ashill/Swaffham. Rebecca Watts, Lead Teacher for Collective Worship, organised the visit with the aim of using this ministry to help teach and reinforce the school’s core values, including compassion and understanding of need. As this is the school’s first year partnering with Operation Christmas Child (OCC), staff have appreciated discovering the wide range of resources and support available to help make the project both a fun and meaningful learning experience for the children.

Rebecca said, "We wanted to give our children a real opportunity to understand compassion in action, and the Shoebox Appeal provides a meaningful way for them to see how small acts of kindness can make a big difference.” 

Mark said, “We are grateful to Rebecca Starman, Head of School, and to Rebecca Watts for the warm welcome we received. We came away amazed by how well-behaved, friendly, and motivated the children were. Seeing children confidently leading collective worship and making us feel welcome was a real blessing. It’s clear that the school’s vision—nurturing responsible minds to make a difference locally and globally—is truly at the heart of all they do. The OCC charity fits beautifully with this vision.”

During the collective worship, Mark and Debra spoke to the children about what it is like to go without basic items such as a toothbrush or to have to share a pencil. Through stories and videos, they showed the journey of a shoebox and highlighted how small acts of kindness can have a lasting impact. Most importantly, they encouraged the children to recognise that their skills, gifts, and compassion can make a real difference in the world.

Debra added, “Wow—what a great school with such a heart to prepare children to become valued adults who are able to support others. Thank you to the children and staff.”

Those seeking more information on Operation Christmas Child for a church, school, group, or business can contact Mark and Debra Watkins at markdebrawatkinsocc@yahoo.com.
Further details can also be found at www.samaritans-purse.org.uk.