Autumn - Second Half Term
“Those who sow in tears shall reap with shouts of joy!
He who goes out weeping, bearing the seed for sowing,
shall come home with shouts of joy, bringing his sheaves with him.”Psalm 126:5–6
Mass for Holy Souls
In November, pupils and staff came together for a reverent Mass for Holy Souls at Our Lady of the Rosary Church. This was a special moment in our school calendar, giving our community the opportunity to pray for loved ones who have died and to remember them with peace, hope, and gratitude.
Music was led beautifully by our school liturgy band, whose playing supported the prayerful atmosphere and helped the children participate with thoughtfulness.
The children joined in the prayers and responses with great respect, and the Mass offered a calm and uplifting space for pupils to honour those they hold in their hearts and to be reminded of God’s enduring love.
Coming together in our parish church strengthened our sense of belonging and reminded us of the closeness between school, parish, and families during this month of prayer.
Armistice Day
As a school community, we observed Armistice Day with dignity and prayerful stillness. Year 5 led a thoughtful assembly that helped pupils reflect on the value of peace, the cost of conflict, and the importance of remembering those who gave their lives in service.
At 11 o’clock, the whole school gathered on the playground for a two-minute silence, standing together in gratitude for those who died and in hope for peace in our world.
Pupil representatives took part in the Spelthorne Borough Council service, laying crosses in memory of the local men and women who lost their lives in the Great War. Their presence was a meaningful way for our school to join the wider community in remembrance.
Every child contributed to a whole-school poppy art installation, painting or sewing a poppy as an act of honour and prayer for all who have been touched by war.
Kindness Counts Week
Our Kindness Counts Week was a great success, giving pupils meaningful opportunities to reflect on how our actions express the Gospel and the values that guide us as a Catholic school.
Kindness
Pupils spent time thinking about the dignity and worth of every person and how our choices show respect for one another. Children from Key Stage 1 and Key Stage 2 also took part in a community litter pick, recognising our shared responsibility for the world around us and the need to care for the places we all use.
Odd Socks Day encouraged pupils to think deeply about the importance of recognising and valuing the uniqueness of every person. The simple act of wearing mismatched socks helped children reflect on how we welcome others, how we honour differences and how we create a school community where everyone feels they belong.
Anti-Bullying Workshops
Throughout the week, pupils took part in workshops that encouraged them to consider how we support one another, especially those who might feel worried or left out. They explored how our words and actions contribute to a community built on respect, fairness and care for the common good.
At the end of the week, we invited families to donate warm socks for The Passage homeless charity. After spending Odd Socks Day celebrating the uniqueness of those around us, this collection helped pupils look outward and consider those who are in need within our wider community. The donated socks will offer warmth and comfort to those facing difficult circumstances.
Gumley Live Nativity
Our Year 4 children enjoyed a wonderful visit to Gumley House School for their annual live nativity. The pupils were captivated as the story of Jesus’ birth was brought to life through drama, music, and prayer. It was a joyful and engaging experience that helped deepen their understanding of the Christmas story and the hope it brings.
Reconciliation Liturgy and Individual Reconciliations
Our children in Years 4 to 6 gathered for a reflective Reconciliation Liturgy, taking time to pause and prepare during this season of hope and waiting. After the liturgy, each child was offered the opportunity to receive the Sacrament of Reconciliation individually with Fr Philip. It was a calm and meaningful moment in our Advent journey, helping our pupils to reflect and open their hearts during this special season.
EYFS & Key Stage One Nativity performances
The EYFS and Key Stage One nativity, 'Knock Knock! ', brought together children from Nursery to Year Two. The performance shared the Christmas story in a joyful and accessible way, centring on the theme of welcome and the celebration of Jesus’ birth.
Children of different ages performed alongside one another, reflecting the inclusive nature of our school community. The nativity combined narration, acting and singing, supported by Makaton signing, allowing all children to take part in a meaningful and age-appropriate way.
Headteacher for the Day
Year 5 and 6 pupils were invited to apply for the role of Headteacher for the Day, and the response was incredible. We received a wide range of creative, confident and thoughtful entries. Mr Peachey was selected as the successful candidate.
Mr Peachey did an amazing job as Headteacher for the Day, throwing himself into the role by welcoming pupils at the gate, introducing the nativity performance, observing lessons and leading an assembly. His assembly focused on care of creation and the importance of looking after our environment, linking this to our responsibility to care for God’s world.
As his first initiative, Mr Peachey introduced a system of kindness tokens, awarded by teachers when pupils were seen treating others with care and respect. His chosen rewards included bookmarks and fridge magnets featuring inspiring quotes from scripture, encouraging pupils to live out Gospel values in everyday school life.
