Aberdeen school defends calling pupils’ seasonal designs winter cards
Kaimhill School in Aberdeen has drawn criticism after referring to pupils’ seasonal card designs as “winter cards” rather than “Christmas cards”, saying the wording reflects its multicultural and multi-faith community. The debate has spread on social media, with some parents and a campaign group calling the change unnecessary or exclusive of Christianity, while another parent said staff had faced abusive messages.
The school says families may call the cards Christmas cards if they wish, and head teacher Susie Webster stressed that Christmas remains an important part of school life. Aberdeen City Council confirmed that Christmas parties and themed activities will go ahead. Webster said the school aims to celebrate Christmas while respecting the different cultures and faiths represented in its community.
- Aberdeen school uses “winter cards” to reflect its diverse community.
- Critics say the wording sidelines Christmas and Christianity.
- The school says Christmas events will continue as usual.
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Kaimhill School in Aberdeen has decided to refer to pupils' seasonal card designs as "winter cards" rather than "Christmas cards". The school says this terminology reflects that its pupil population includes families from many different cultures and faiths.
The decision has sparked debate on social media. Some parents and campaign groups have questioned whether the change is necessary or whether it excludes Christianity from Christmas celebrations. Other parents have expressed support, and the school has noted that staff members have received abusive messages about the issue.
The school has clarified that families are free to call the cards Christmas cards if they wish, and confirmed that Christmas celebrations, parties and themed activities will continue throughout the school year. School leadership has emphasised that Christmas remains an important part of school life whilst acknowledging the diverse faiths and cultures represented in its community.
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The case for
The school's approach reflects the reality of modern Britain's multicultural communities. By using inclusive terminology like 'winter cards' alongside Christmas celebrations, the school acknowledges that not all families practice Christmas whilst ensuring no student feels excluded. This doesn't diminish Christmas—the school explicitly continues Christmas parties and activities—but rather creates space to recognise the diverse faiths and traditions represented, making all pupils feel welcomed and valued regardless of their background.
The case against
British schools should confidently celebrate Christmas as a significant cultural and national tradition without apologising for it. Christmas is central to British life and the school's own calendar, and changing established terminology feels unnecessary and suggests that acknowledging Britain's Christian heritage is somehow divisive. The concern is that endless pursuit of inclusivity, whilst well-intentioned, gradually erodes familiar cultural touchstones and may leave families feeling their traditions are being quietly downgraded rather than celebrated.
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Originally published by Daily Mail as “‘Woke’ school sparks row after replacing ‘Christmas cards’ with ‘winter cards’”.