The school donated 618 items [20 boxes worth] to the appeal, a sixth of which were collected by the Year 1AD class alone.

Of the above figure, 63 items were sourced from anonymous donors.

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Assistant principal Catherine O'Neill said the appeal was an opportunity for the school's Year 5 students to showcase their leadership and organisational skills.

"Our Year 5's asked each classroom to participate in the initiative and launched a colouring-in competition as a companion activity for the appeal," Ms O'Neill said.

"The students donated everything from chips to Christmas puddings, anything to help bring some festive cheer to less fortunate members of the community."

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Ms O'Neill said while the school participates in a number of fundraising initiatives throughout the year, the Christmas period further stresses the importance of lending a hand.

"Christmas is a time for giving after all, and what better way to teach students about the value of helping others," she said.

Bathurst mayor Bobby Bourke was in attendance to see the items handed over to the appeal, and commended the school on their efforts.

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"The outstanding generosity displayed by these students has brought a joyful tear to my eye," Cr Bourke said.

"We put together around 1200 food hampers for this appeal each year, and these donations will go a long way to help brighten up the Christmas period for those doing it tough."