With Christmas just days away, teachers at a Hampshire primary school thought inviting the local vicar to discuss the holiday’s origins would be enlightening. Instead, it backfired as the vicar destroyed the magic of Christmas for the young students by denying the existence of Santa Claus.
Rev Dr Paul Chamberlain addressed a group of 10- and 11-year-olds at Lee-on-the-Solent Junior School, bluntly declaring, “Santa isn’t real,” and explaining that parents, not Santa, are responsible for the gifts and cookies. Children were left devastated, with some bursting into tears.
One child recounted, “He asked if Santa likes cookies, and when we said yes, he replied, ‘Do your parents like cookies?’ Then he said they were the ones eating them. Everyone was shocked.”
Parents were outraged and lodged formal complaints. In response, the school distributed “believe” badges and personalized ornaments to restore the festive spirit. A letter was also sent home expressing regret for the incident.
The Diocese of Portsmouth confirmed that Rev Chamberlain admitted his remarks were inappropriate and apologized to the school, parents, and pupils. The headteacher assured families that efforts were underway to mend the situation.
The vicar’s comments overshadowed the intended focus on the nativity story, leaving many to question the judgment of bringing such blunt honesty into a setting meant to celebrate childhood wonder.