Oasis Academy Wattville shines on Sky News with inclusive ‘Passport to Christmas’ performance!

Oasis Academy Wattville celebrated the festive season in style, and the whole country got to see it! The academy was proudly featured on Sky News last week on Christmas Day, showcasing their uniquely inclusive Christmas production, ‘A Passport to Christmas,’ and highlighting the rich diversity that defines the Wattville community. 

With 52 languages spoken across the school and families representing cultures from around the world, the academy set out to create a performance that every child could see themselves in. This year’s show explored global celebrations through themes of citizenship, kindness, and joy, offering a modern, non‑religious take on the traditional end‑of‑term performance. 

A cast of 55 pupils took audiences on a journey across four scenes, from Birmingham to Uganda, on to Paris, and back home again, using dance, drumming, and sign language to bring the story to life. The soundtrack included festive favourites such as Jingle Bells, Sing Noel, Petit Papa Noël and a multilingual version of We Wish You a Merry Christmas, performed using Makaton to ensure every child could participate. 

Speaking to Sky News, Headteacher Renu Samuels emphasised the academy’s commitment to inclusion: “The Christmas shows at our academy are about celebrating the richness of our community and making sure that every religion, every culture, every belief is celebrated.” 

The Sky News feature highlighted how Wattville’s approach reflects the changing face of 21st‑century classrooms, and how schools like ours are leading the way in creating performances that honour both difference and unity. 

Beyond the spotlight of national news, the academy also enjoyed a wonderfully busy and heart‑warming festive season filled with generosity, creativity, and community spirit. Pupils and families raised £144.00 for Birmingham Hospice by completing five joyful laps of the school playground; singing, laughing, and even pretending to be little reindeers along the way! Their enthusiasm and kindness made a real difference to a local charity close to many hearts. 

As well as this, staff across the academy came together to donate food and toys for families in need this Christmas. A special thank you goes to Miss Robertson, whose organisation and dedication ensured the collection reached those who needed it most. 

On Wednesday 10th December, the academy’s youngest pupils lit up the stage with a beautiful Nativity performance full of music, smiles, and festive magic. Their confidence and joy were a highlight of the term! 

Excitement filled the academy as Santa Claus made a special appearance, meeting pupils, hearing their Christmas wishes, and delivering gifts. Huge thanks to our staff team for wrapping presents and creating such a magical experience for every child.  

Amongst all of the above, each year group also designed their own Christmas cards, producing a colourful collection bursting with creativity, sparkle, and festive cheer. The artwork captured the imagination and talent of our pupils beautifully. 

From national media recognition to acts of kindness and creativity, this festive season has showcased everything that makes Oasis Academy Wattville special, diversity, inclusion, community, and joy.