Wookey Hole Caves in Somerset will instruct 50 students at its Santa and Elf Academy. And lessons on the course are being led by the real Santa Claus – at least according to the Wookey Hole staff.
The day-long course included the history of Santa Claus, zoology of the reindeer, costume and make-up essentials, fitness – to ensure the Santas can get down the chimneys in one piece – and acting.
The student Santas who attended the course were graded and, if they passed they received an official Wookey Hole Seal of Santa, qualification and certificate.
Students got to meet reindeer, learn how to feed and ride them, and studied the history of Santa Claus, how he evolved from St Nicholas in green robes to Father Christmas and Santa Claus dressed up like cola bottles.
They were also coached to stay relaxed when a young mum in a ra-ra skirt wants to sit on Santa's knee and also taught how to stay calm when a naughty child pulls off your beard © Thisis somerset.co.uk
I wonder if they are taught what to do incase they come across a Half Xmas Tree