Aeolus Valley All Age School Hosts ‘Jamaica Day’

Teachers and students of Aeolus Valley All-age School in St. Thomas on Thursday (October 16) participated in a concert and exhibition as part of the school’s heritage celebrations.
The event dubbed, “Jamaica Day”, was held on the school’s ground and featured musical pieces, dance, and national songs, performed by students and cultural groups in the parish. An item, titled, “Serious Business,” done by students from Grades 7, 8 and 9 and a dance by the Manchioneal cultural group, was well received by the audience.
There were also displays of ethnic foods, historical artefacts and craft items done by the studentsPrincipal of the School, Freddie Bingham told JIS News that the heritage programme was organised by teachers, students and parents to showcase various aspects of Jamaica’s heritage. “The students have shown their willingness and eagerness to be part of this exercise,” he added.
He noted that residents of Aeolus Valley and cultural groups from other communities, including Portland, Port Morant and Yallahs, have been participating in the event, since it began in 2001.
Teacher and Coordinator of the programme, Antonette Clough-Moore, told JIS News that “Jamaica Day” was introduced because the country’s cultural practices were waning rapidly in some areas.
“I had realised that the culture was dying and I saw a need for resurrecting it. Many of our students do not know about our heritage and our culture and I thought it would be a good opportunity to bring it back,” she said.
According to Mrs. Clough-Moore, the teachers were asked to wear outfits made with the bandana material, in order to introduce the students to Jamaica’s national costume. “We want the children to be aware of this,” she added.
She also praised the support and assistance received from parents in preparing the costumes worn by students during their performances.
Other events held during Heritage Week included a flag raising ceremony, the reading of Anancy stories and riddles and a musical programme.