Celebrating the Start of Summer
As the official arrival of summer approaches in less than 48 hours, over 500 students from CEIP Príncipe Felipe in Candelaria have already welcomed the much-anticipated season. To the rhythm of Daddy Yankee’s “Azukita,” these children celebrated on Friday with a genuine farewell party—or a welcoming event, depending on one’s perspective. Swapping textbooks for ice creams, and traditional football matches during breaks for a Zumba session, both students and teachers enjoyed a unique day to cap off the academic year.
A Day of Fun and Memories
The playground served as the perfect backdrop for a morning filled with memories, experiences, and much excitement.
Under the theme of the “Chachi Day,” the school aimed to make this last day of classes more festive. “Since it’s a sad day for some, we wanted them to have fun, so we organised various activities,” explained the school principal, Marian Valls.
“Over 500 children danced to the rhythm of ‘Azukita’, Daddy Yankee’s song”
This was the first party of its kind organised by the school, though the dancing skills of many were quite impressive. Notably, the three Hugos from Year Three—Rodríguez, Gabiño, and Pérez—seemed almost as synchronised as when their mothers chose to give them the same name. Humility characterised them as well; none wanted to claim the title of best dancer. “We all dance equally well,” insisted Rodríguez.
Ice Cream Instead of Books
Others appeared to favour food over dancing. Young Emile Dorta left the dance floor to loudly proclaim that he had eaten everything: “Snickers, popcorn, crisps, sweets, and juices.” McDonald’s, through the Parents’ Association at the school, provided ice cream and juice stalls for the students.
“Through the Parents’ Association, McDonald’s provided drinks and ice creams for the students”
However, what united these professional dancers and food enthusiasts was their shared passion for face painting. Many students were seen around the schoolyard with sharks or flowers painted on their faces. Besides the Zumba sessions, the school set up face painting stations. “There were queues from early on, and the youngest were the first to try out the paints,” noted Leila Rodríguez, one of those responsible for adding colour to the morning’s festivities. Just a short distance from the face painting stations, a photocall allowed both children and adults to capture the day’s moments.
A Magic Show with Oscar-Worthy Performances
The youngest children in the centre, the preschoolers, also had their fair share of surprises and enjoyed a delightful magic show. A crowd of little ones watched with wide eyes as an expert illusionist performed tricks. The students, aged three to five, recited a spell in unison that briefly transformed one of their teachers into a chicken. The performance was deserving of an Oscar, bringing laughter from the teaching staff.
The children were also captivated by the numerous animal-shaped balloons they received. From dogs to snakes, these colourful creations accompanied the students throughout the festivities, capturing some of the day’s most heartwarming images.
The event was graced by the presence of the Deputy Minister of Education, José Manuel Cabrera, who wanted to join the students in celebrating the end of the school year. “They have put in a lot of effort this year, and now it’s time for them to enjoy the rewards,” he remarked. He even joined in on a choreography with some teachers.
A Bittersweet Farewell
However, not all was cheerful. The day also carried a bittersweet feeling for the Year Six primary students. While there was excitement for the summer, they had to bid farewell as they prepared for a new phase.
“I was looking forward to the holidays, but I don’t want to leave the teachers behind because they are fantastic,” shared Neyzan Gutiérrez, a student from this year. Alicia Brito echoed similar sentiments, stating, “I feel a bit sad to leave the school; I really enjoy the atmosphere and everything I’ve experienced here.” In reality, these students will move just a few metres away to IES Santa Ana. “But we’re like one big family here; it’s hard for them to leave, and for us too,” detailed Valls.
A Truly Family-Oriented School
This sense of familiarity was highlighted by the surprise fourth-year primary teacher, Saray Ojeda, received. “At first, they wouldn’t let me into the classroom; they had a party planned for me,” she emphasised. Her students performed a poem for her and even gifted her a sash for being the best teacher, which she proudly wore throughout the day.
Thus, amid the dancing, laughter, and even a few tears, CEIP Príncipe Felipe celebrated the end of an academic year that not only concludes with holidays but also with shared memories. It was clear that, for at least one day, the schoolyard morphed from being just a playground into an unforgettable farewell stage. Now, everyone can recharge for another school year filled with surprises, aspirations, and engaging activities for both students and teachers.
