Aberdeen Primary School’s ‘Winter Cards’ Email Sparks Backlash, Threatening Call to Deputy Head

A primary school in Aberdeen has told parents it will refer to Christmas cards as “winter cards” in school communications, a decision that has drawn an online backlash and, according to The Times, led to an abusive and threatening phone call to the school’s deputy head.

Kaimhill Primary School, in the Garthdee area of the city, sent parents an email explaining the change. “To reflect this inclusivity in our communications we refer to seasonal cards as winter cards rather than Christmas cards,” the email said. “This terminology helps ensure that our language is welcoming and inclusive of all members of our school community.”

The email made clear that families remain free to call the cards whatever they wish, noting: “Of course families are free to refer to these cards as Christmas cards if they wish.” It closed by thanking parents “for understanding and continued support in helping us foster an inclusive, respectful and welcoming environment for everyone.”

A screenshot of the email was shared widely on the social media platform X, prompting criticism from parents and others who accused the school of downplaying Christmas. One parent said: “This woke nonsense needs to stop.” Another asked: “Who is getting paid to destroy our customs and traditions?” A third wrote: “This is just utter madness. Why are they cancelling Christmas for kids?”

The Times reported that the backlash included an abusive and threatening phone call to the school’s deputy head following the email’s circulation online.

Despite the wording change, Kaimhill Primary has a full slate of festive events planned for this year, including a Christmas party, a fair and carol singing, according to the Daily Record.

Part of a wider pattern

The episode follows other disputes over how public institutions mark Christmas. In 2023, the English city of Bradford announced it would put up a “multi-faith festive tree” for that year’s Christmas season, while also allowing a traditional Christmas tree to stand alongside it.