To mark Thinking of You Week, greetings card designer and publisher Jonathan Crosby has hooked up with his old school Whitehaven St James’ Juniors to donate a quantity of cards for the pupils to write and send to their friends and family.
Jonathan’s business, award-winning Stripey Cats, now in its 14th year, produces a wide range of children’s greetings cards.
His early years in education were spent at St James’ Junior School in Whitehaven where two of his childhood friends Neil Carruthers and Andrew Beattie now both teach.
Andrew, who is head teacher, said: “Seeing the children exchange messages is a lovely thing, and shows the power of a handwritten note as opposed to an email or text. Many are keen to write a positive message to a family member, footy coach and even the lady who volunteers to clean the streets round the school.
“Kindness and respect are two key values of our school so these positive messages can be shared when we join in with Thinking of You Week.
Also, it is great for our children to hear of a former pupil’s story as a successful entrepreneur and we want to thank Jonathan for engaging with us.”
Jonathan added: “I’m really happy to support my old school. It’s quite a special thing to return to the classroom and engage with the children and witness their enthusiasm for card sending.”
Neil said: “This is an amazing idea and a positive boost for our students. We all get so used to sending messages digitally these days that you sometimes forget how much more meaningful and thoughtful a written note or card can be, especially when unexpected. It’s all about spreading those positive vibes! So thanks again Stripey Cats for inspiring our children.”