Well Dressing
We are proud to participate in one of our area's most unique local customs. Well Dressings are works of art created by hand using natural materials such as petals and seeds by groups and are unique to Derbyshire and the Peak District.
Mystery surrounds the exact source of this ancient tradition – believed to have been brought to the area by the Romans or the Celts, to give thanks for the county’s fresh water springs. Well Dressing began here at Norbury C of E Primary School in 1987. It is remarkable to consider that some of our children are continuing a tradition that was started by their parents as children!
The well dressing really reflects so much about our school culture of family and working together with kindness, understanding and generosity. We are so proud of the way that the children work together, with older children sharing their skills and encouragement with the younger children. The children listen carefully to each other, cooperating, taking turns and displaying gentleness and respect for the beautiful natural materials that are used to make the design.
Our completed Well Dressing is celebrated with a service of blessing and thanks, with hymns, songs, readings and prayers contributed by the children. It is typically followed by a display of Maypole Dancing and a cream team in the Village Hall - a very special time together!
The website https://welldressing.com/ maintains a diary and gallery of well dressings from around the County.
2024 - Alice in Wonderland
Children enjoyed experimenting with the techniques to create their own mini Well Dressings.