Smith’s School of English Otsu Christmas Party

Hello All,

Once again this year, the Smith’s School of English Otsu Christmas Party was a smashing success. In fact, all the teachers in Otsu felt it was the best Christmas party we’ve hosted yet. This was our 5th Christmas party and after 4 year’s we’ve finally got the perfect formula for fun fun fun. Here’s a quick summary of the evening for you.

We start with welcoming students to the event. Held in the largest restaurant space on the top floor of the Al Plaza department store located next to JR Otsu station, and directly across from the school, 40 some students, family and friends are welcomed under a decorated entryway and whisked into the restaurant, where they drop off their bags and jackets, place their gift-exchange presents under the Christmas tree before attacking the buffet tables.

Once everyone is seated, we do a quick welcome speech, then a quick round of introductions. This is my favorite part as I get to enjoy hearing how much ALL of our students have improved since they did their introduction speeches at the previous year’s party. Believe me when I say that the improvement is obvious, and it’s easy to see that everyone has worked very hard all year studying both at the school and at home. After introductions, Santa usually arrives and doles out the presents, along with candy canes and other Xmas goodies. Everyone enjoys having their picture taken with Santa, who is such a good sport he even does some glad-handing after all the gifts have gone out.

Next we have a short live music program, including a cappella songs and guitar accompaniment. This year we even had a special guest who played his bass flute for us. Students enjoyed listening and joining in on some classic holiday carols, and listening to my [scratchy] version of Greeeen’s Kiseki in English. After all the music is done, gifts have been opened and bellies have been filled, we have coffee and tea and cut the big cake prepared kindly for us by the good bakers down at Hiro bakery on the 1st floor of Al Plaza. We like to keep it local and Hiro always makes us a great [custom] cake.

Hope you can join us for next year’s party. Will we see you at the 5th Annual Kansai Area Smith’s School of English Hanami Party this spring at Osaka Castle Park as well?

Sincerely,

Edward, SSE Otsu Owner