14 budding Sixth Form photographers from the Ipswich school will be using their artistic skills to capture the spirit of Christmas over the five nights of entertainment organised by Ipswich Central and Ipswich Borough Council.

The opportunity has allowed students to experience working in a professional environment. Northgate gave a mini press workshop in advance to prepare them for the level and style of photography expected of a press photographer in the real world.

 The ‘Five Nights of Christmas’ line-up has so far included a lantern-lit procession through the Town Centre with Santa and his sleigh, stilt walkers, fire eaters, a festive market, a mini street panto, large-scale choir performances and lots and lots of discounts.

A showcase of all their hard work is planned after the festive season, with the photographs of Christmas in Ipswich displayed in the heart of Ipswich. Their work will range from abstract to traditional, with a variety of both colour and black and white shots for the public to admire.

 Caroline Shouksmith, Photography Teacher at Northgate High School said; “Our talented students are really excited to have the opportunity to show off their skills and gain priceless experience working on a real life brief. We are pleased that Ipswich Central are keen to pull the community together and involve local schools and we are confident that they won't be disappointed in the results."

 This is the first time that students have been able to get directly involved in such a varied and high profile event within the local community. Emma Whitten, 18, from Northgate High School said; “This experience will benefit me and my classmates greatly and will give us real life experience to discuss during our university interviews”

 The themed nights coincide with late night shopping on Thursday 19^th and 26^th November, and 3^rd, 10^th and 17^th December.

Paul Clement, executive director of Ipswich Central, said: “It’s great to be involving the local community in this way. Ipswich is recognised more and more for its creative vision, and being able to use the Ipswich Christmas to showcase the artistic skills of our youth is fantastic!”