I found this image this week and I think it is just stunning; it is now proudly displayed in the worship area as we look to this weekend’s gospel. On Monday morning I asked the children to close their eyes and picture someone who was a true disciple in their class. Someone who is faith-filled and hopeful, some who chooses kindness, someone who might not always get things right but always has the right intention -someone who they would follow. All week they have been studying this person and trying to seek their disciple qualities. "Fishers of Men" teaches that Jesus called disciples Simon, Andrew, James, and John to stop fishing for fish and instead help people follow Him, acting as "fishers of people" by spreading His love. This passage is important to the gospel because we see Jesus work a miracle and then teach his new disciples what their life will be like as fishers of men. The men were unable to catch any fish until Jesus came and they listened to him. Jesus then tells them that they will be fishers of men. Their ministry, like their fishing trip, will be completely dependent on Jesus’ will. We learn that Jesus called ordinary men to be His disciples and to do His work - just like me and you.
Food bank donations for January - Rice and Pasta. The foodbank have seen a significant surge in demand at their food bank over the past few weeks, making it increasingly challenging to meet the needs of those who rely on their services. Let’s help where we can!
Celebrating our School
On Wednesday morning, I had the pleasure of talking a group of parents through the journey of our school over the last three years. I was a little nervous talking about what we had done, but I really didn’t need to be. I chose to talk about the three things that we had worked the hardest on; SEND, curriculum and environment, and what has had the most impact. All of the work in these areas are evident in our school and in the classrooms, but with them also comes challenges and room for more growth. I was going to attach the presentation today, but without context or narrative it might get lost in translation. I will do a voice over for it next week and pop it on the blog next Friday so I can talk you through it.
At the end of the presentation there was two things that we discussed as a group of parents, that I had already discussed with our children.
Uniform - the guidance now tells us that we can only have 3 branded items of uniform that is compulsory for all of our pupils. Currently, we have our school jumper & cardigan, which is the first item, and the school PE hoodie which is the second. Historically, the white badged polo was a piece of PE uniform, which we have now made non compulsory as a school polo shirt for every day uniform. However, following the uniform consultation last year and from conversations with both pupils and parents, a white polo for PE is not ideal and not sustainable in any way. Lots of parents last year spoke about them becoming increasingly dirty and having to be replaced more frequently. After conversations with other local heads and trying to create consistency, I have suggested a darker branded top for PE, a navy blue which would make up our third piece of compulsory uniform. I have shown pupils, parents and staff the options, and am awaiting some more. We will then move forward with making a decision. The price of this will also be considered in the final decision.
We are seeing an increase in jewellery, smart watches and bracelets of all kind come into school. Please can earrings be gold or silver studs only, no smart watches (just digital or analogue) and no bracelets. Thank you.
Assembly - I love assemblies and have chosen to add an additional one in at the start of the week. It is so important that we bookend our week together. We have looked at the length of Friday’s assembly and the content. Again, discussing with pupils, staff and students we have discussed whether weekly certificates are needed as all our pupils are so brilliant and whether we can think about them a little more differently. Parents love coming to assembly, but not everyone can and especially when they are text the night before. We have discussed celebrating the school learning each week and inviting parents throughout the year so that you are still part of the school culture and see it. Stars are very much loved. This idea will continue to evolve as well over the coming months and will be shared with you too.
Snacks at School - these have been a really big hit. We can see from the numbers each week just how much they have been appreciated. The parents this week spoke about keeping them all year around, and not just for the winter. There has been a decrease in the amount of rubbish in school too.
Parents’s Day
Parents’s Day is on Friday 13th February - either face to face or virtual. You again have the choice of what you would like to do and just need to sign up with your class teacher. Prior to the meeting with your child’s teacher, you will be emailed a mid-term report on your child with their attainment to date, attendance and learning behaviour that they are currently showing. After half-term, there will then be book looks for you to share and celebrate your child’s work.
Tuesday 24th February 9am: Year 5
Tuesday 24th February 2.30pm: Year 6
Wednesday 25th February: 9am: Year 3
Wednesday 25th February: 2:30pm: Year 4
Thursday 26th February: 9am: Year 2
Friday 27th February: 9am: Year 1
Star Virtue and Learners of the Week
Office news
The office has been really busy this week as Mrs Nel has completed the school census and Catholic Census. Please can you visit Parent Pay and ensure that your accounts are settled. Thank you so much.
The school calendar for this term is up to date with assemblies, events and Easter liturgies.
We have had a glitch on the online form for reporting absences - all should be sorted now.
Whole School Attendance
Winter Warmer Snack Booking Form
Here is the winter warmer snack booking form for next week. Please book before 8am on Monday. A reminder text has been scheduled for Monday at 7.20am.
Have a lovely weekend with your family and friends.
God bless you all
Mrs Gregan