Parents, grandparents and community members gathered for a special day celebrating Italy, which was hosted by the Curlewis Country Women’s Association (CWA) and Curlewis Public School.

Curlewis Preschool and Carroll Public School also joined in the fun, making for an energetic and active day.

Highlights were performances by the two schools, which focused on italian songs, such as That’s Amore. The preschoolers sang along to We Like Peanut Butter and The Twist with great enthusiasm.

The Curlewis CWA gave a donation to the Curlewis P&C, and the Curlewis Lions Club and Leo Project donated more than $2000 to the Curlewis school’s library, and more than $1000 to the preschool. The branch folded in March after 27 years.

Curlewis Public School’s band made its first public appearance for 2015, playing a number of Italian pieces using a variety of instruments purchased using previous donations.

Following the performances, the students enjoyed a lunch of spaghetti and gelato.

Curlewis Public School studied Italy this term in conjunction with the CWA’s International Day, which is held each year. 

The students have constructed displays including volcanoes, masks, iconic Italian buildings and hot air balloons. 

Curlewis CWA president Denise Scott said the school had been participating for many years.

“It’s a terrific thing to have at the school,” she said.

“I think it’s a really good idea to involve the community and the schools in the CWA, especially when we’re studying a country.”

Director of public schools NSW, Tamworth Network, Ruythe Dufty, attended the event and said she was proud of the schools for their efforts.

“I think rural schools are alive and kicking,” she said.