In a world where acts of kindness can often feel overshadowed by challenges, an inspiring initiative is bringing people together to make a real difference for families in need. The Reverse Advent Calendar, first conceived by Jane Current, headteacher of Broom Barns Primary School in Stevenage, has grown from a local idea into a movement with the potential to inspire communities nationwide.
What Is the Reverse Advent Calendar?
Unlike a traditional advent calendar that gives a treat each day leading up to Christmas, the Reverse Advent Calendar flips the concept on its head. Instead, children are encouraged to donate an item of food, collectively creating a valuable contribution for their local food bank. This initiative not only supports families during the festive season but also ensures food banks are well-stocked in the quieter months that follow, when the need often remains high but donations wane.
Recognising the potential of this idea, Kenny Arnold, a dedicated volunteer for People for People, brought the Reverse Advent Calendar to schools across Stevenage. Through his heartfelt assemblies, Kenny has inspired children to think beyond themselves and actively contribute to their communities. His efforts have significantly bolstered donations to the local Foodshed, a lifeline for many vulnerable families in the area.
But Kenny’s vision doesn’t stop at Stevenage. With a deep understanding of how strong communities can lift each other up, he is determined to expand the initiative nationally.
Partnering with 1decision to Build a National Movement
Kenny’s work caught the attention of 1decision, a Stevenage-based organisation providing educational resources to over 2,000 schools nationwide. Known for its focus on teaching life skills and personal development, 1decision was recently recognised as the Teach Primary Award winner for Health and Well-being in 2024. This award highlights their dedication to equipping children with the tools they need to thrive.
Together, Kenny Arnold and 1decision have created a digital assembly pack designed to engage children in the importance of giving back. This resource includes a touching video message from Kenny and a digital story illustrating how a family’s small acts of kindness can ripple outward to transform lives. The digital story was filmed at the Foodshed itself and even features Daniel Barnes, the lead pastor at the Foodshed, further connecting children to the real-world impact of their kindness.
It also introduces creative ideas for children who may not be able to donate food, such as writing letters to the elderly or creating handmade holiday cards for hospital patients.
A Successful Launch in Stevenage
On 16th December, The Leys Primary School in Stevenage became the first to launch the digital version of the Reverse Advent Calendar assembly. Headteacher Mrs. Khangura was delighted to be the first school in the area to host this meaningful assembly. She shared, “I know how important these initiatives are for the families in our area.”
While Kenny could not attend in person, his recorded video message brought his passion directly to the pupils. The assembly sparked meaningful conversations among children, some of whom bravely shared their personal experiences of relying on food banks during difficult times.
Sophie Hearn of 1decision commented on the initiative’s success:
“The Reverse Advent Calendar is a truly special initiative that our team wholeheartedly supports. We believe this idea has the potential to inspire schools and communities across the country. With so many families facing difficult times, it’s more important than ever to come together and make a difference. Together, we can build stronger, more compassionate communities.”
More Than Just Food Donations
The Reverse Advent Calendar is about more than filling food banks. It teaches children the importance of kindness, empathy, and community spirit. During the assembly, pupils brainstormed additional ways to support their neighbours, showing how this initiative creates not just givers, but thoughtful citizens.
1decision is committed to relaunching the Reverse Advent Calendar every December, making it an annual tradition. Schools across the UK can access the Reverse Advent and other meaningful assemblies for free via www.1decision.co.uk.
How You Can Help
For individuals in the community who would like to contribute, Foodshed donation baskets can be found at local large supermarkets. These baskets are a convenient way to drop off items that will directly support families in need.
Together, We Are Stronger
This grassroots movement is a testament to what can be achieved when communities come together with a shared purpose. From a single idea born in a Hertfordshire primary school to a nationwide initiative, the Reverse Advent Calendar reminds us all that the spirit of giving has the power to unite us—and transform lives beyond the festive season.
