A small rural school in County Tyrone has been left 'stunned' and 'completely amazed' after receiving high praise from an unlikely source: the iconic John Lewis Christmas advert team.
A Viral Moment of Recognition
Fivemiletown College, celebrating its 65th anniversary, produced a five-minute festive film titled 'A Christmas Note' and shared it on Facebook. The heartwarming project, which tells the story of pupils hiding uplifting notes around their school and town, unexpectedly caught the eye of the retail giant. On Friday 5th December 2025, the official John Lewis account commented on the post, writing: 'Great to see that love lives at Fivemiletown College. Congrats on your brilliant film. Love from the John Lewis ad team.'
Headteacher Janice Allen described the response as 'really, really overwhelming'. She expressed the collective shock, noting that for a 'small school in a rural community', such recognition from a brand synonymous with Christmas advertising felt extraordinary. 'The staff's reaction was absolutely priceless,' Ms Allen said. 'I wish I’d had a camera to show you their faces.'
The Story Behind the Festive Film
The video, commissioned from filmmaker Philip Anderson, features local businesses including a butchers, greengrocers, a boutique, and a tractor dealer – a nod to the agricultural background of many pupils. The idea was pitched just six weeks prior by two teachers, Andrea McNeary and Izzy Galloway.
The project held a poignant personal connection. The filmmaker's late cousin, Emma Patterson, was a much-loved teacher at the school. 'She was very young when she passed away, and a really, really wonderful colleague to have,' Ms Allen reflected. 'It was lovely to have that connection as well.'
An Emotional Impact Beyond Likes
The acclaim extended far beyond a single social media comment. Ms Allen reported that other local schools had telephoned to say the film's message had moved them. The emotional resonance was powerfully evident during a special screening for staff. 'I put the lights up at the end, I looked around the room and there were so many of them in tears having watched it,' the headteacher recalled, calling the moment 'something really, really special'.
This unexpected endorsement from a Christmas advertising powerhouse has not only validated the school's creative efforts but has also shining a spotlight on the talent and community spirit thriving within a small Northern Irish town.
