Crawley school speaks out over ‘upsetting’ decision not to hold Christmas Nativity

The University of Brighton Academies Trust which runs Pound Hill Infant Academy said it understands that for some families, the move will be ‘upsetting’.

A spokesman added: “The decision not to film or hold a nativity this year and instead for all children to learn through the text, ‘The Nutcracker’, by Jane Ray was not taken lightly, but necessary to ensure all our pupils at Pound Hill Infant Academy were able to take part in these experiences.”

The school had to consider the safeguarding of children within the academy, the logistical challenges of filming while following government control measures, and respect and be mindful of parental consent for the filming of children within the academy, he added.

The spokesman said: “We want to assure our school community that every effort continues to be made to ensure our pupils have the very best provision and care within the academy.

“We want to thank all our families and the wider community for their continued support and understanding during these challenging times.”