Our Christmas Fayre raises £700 for Derian House!

On Wednesday 4th December 2024, the community came together to celebrate the festive season in the best way possible, by giving back! Thanks to the dedication of Mrs Taylor and some of our amazing Year 13 students, this year’s Christmas Fayre was another joyful success, raising an impressive £700 for Derian House Children’s Hospice.

The Fayre brought together students, families, staff and local residents for an afternoon packed with festive cheer. From the moment the doors opened, the Academy was alive with music, laughter and the smell of delicious homemade food. The event featured a fantastic range of stalls run by local vendors and student-led initiatives, offering everything from warm snacks and hot drinks to sweet treats and crafts.

The DACA tombola and raffle were a hit with guests, with plenty of exciting prizes up for grabs. All proceeds from the event went directly to Derian House, a charity close to our hearts that provides vital care for children and families across the region.

We were honoured to be joined by the Mayor of Blackburn with Darwen, Cllr Brian Taylor, who praised the event and its purpose, saying: "This is a truly wonderful event for a fantastic cause."

A standout highlight was the ever-popular Santa’s Grotto, where children and a few grown-ups got to share their Christmas wishes with Father Christmas himself. Live performances from DACA students brought festive music to the air, adding even more magic to the atmosphere.

Families also enjoyed free arts and crafts activities, wrote letters to Santa, and tested their football skills in a free penalty shootout hosted by Blackburn Rovers Community Trust. The Darwen Grinch even made a cheeky appearance, much to the delight of younger visitors!

Reflecting on the event, Principal Claire Bailey said: “It’s great to see the community coming together, and we thank everyone for getting behind us and joining us for a great cause. Derian House is a charity very close to our hearts here at DACA.”

The Christmas Fayre was more than just a fun evening, it was a heartwarming celebration of kindness, generosity and community spirit. We’re incredibly proud of everyone involved, and we’re already looking forward to next year!

Read the Telegraph article here.

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