New Festive Children’s Book Christmas Sticks Inspired by Anglesey Abbey and Supported Learning Students

Cambridge Regional College (CRC) is celebrating the release of a magical new children’s book, Christmas Sticks, written and illustrated by Andrea McKenzie, a Learning Support Mentor at CRC. The book is inspired by Andrea’s work with the college’s Green Team, a horticulture course for students with supported learning needs, who volunteer at the National Trust’s Anglesey Abbey.

Set in the beautiful grounds of Anglesey Abbey, Christmas Sticks tells a heartwarming festive tale that encourages children to explore nature, embrace creativity, and discover the joy of giving. The story reflects the Green Team’s ethos of teamwork, environmental care and seasonal celebration.

Author and Illustrator, Andrea McKenzie, Signing Christmas Sticks at Anglesey Abbey

Christmas Sticks Children’s Book on sale at Anglesey Abbey, where the book is set along with Christmas cards. Image credit, National Trust

Andrea’s illustrations on display at the book signing.

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Christmas Sticks Children’s Book

Andrea said:
“Working alongside our supported learning students at Anglesey Abbey has been an incredible experience. Their enthusiasm for horticulture and conservation inspired me to create a story that captures the magic of the Abbey and the creativity that comes from working with nature.”

The Green Team provides CRC students with supported learning needs the opportunity to gain practical skills and confidence through hands-on horticulture projects. Their volunteering at Anglesey Abbey includes gardening, conservation and seasonal activities that benefit both the environment and the local community.

Andrew Fountain, Green Team Supervisor, said:

“The books that Andrea has created during our time at Anglesey are truly magical and testament to the spirit of the students and the beauty of our natural world, something I have found to be a powerful tool in education providing a different setting to develop independence and individual confidence.”

In addition to this special Christmas edition, Andrea’s enchanting illustrations are now available as Christmas cards. The children’s book is the next instalment of the Sticks story, with Andrea’s first book having been published in 2024, based in Anglesey Abbey in the Autumn. Christmas Sticks is available now and on sale at Anglesey Abbey, Waterstones and Amazon.