A class of special pupils from Brigshaw High School & Language College in Allerton Bywater, West Yorkshire, have received an early Christmas present, £2,500 cash donation from big-hearted Castleford based builders, Strategic Team Group, who dressed up as Santa and his helper to present the funds.

After hearing that the school were trying to raise funds to take the Lifeskills group on a dream holiday to Disneyland Paris in May 2012, the construction firm stepped in and offered to help to pay for the trip. The whole class of 20 pupils, aged between 12 and 17 years and 8 teachers will be heading off to Paris for 4 days, as part of the school's inclusion programme, which aims to develop life skills, broaden horizons and encourage independence.

Commenting on the donation, Strategic Team Group's operations director, Gary Taylor said:

"We are all proud to be involved in supporting Brigshaw, particularly at this time of year. Visiting the school and meeting the pupils has been a very humbling experience for us all and we genuinely feel privileged to be associated with the Lifeskills group. Clearly the work done by the staff and the interaction with the main school is benefitting all involved.

"And of course it's been great to play Santa for the day!"

Inclusion coordinator, Carol Edwards added:

"Students were surprised when Santa and his Elf joined the lesson and were very happy when they all received a box of chocolates too! We would like to say a massive THANK YOU to Strategic Team Group for their support in helping us make our dream trip possible. Disneyland Paris – here we come!!...."

Strategic Team Group specialises in the improvement of social and affordable housing stock, educational buildings, rail stations, and commercial offices.