We were delighted to welcome Bishop Ralph to our school to bless the preschool. He was joined by a selection of children from different classes for a wonderful liturgy, during which Bishop Ralph blessed both the children and the preschool.
Afterwards, the children from each class came to say hello to Bishop Ralph and received a special blessing from him. It was a truly joyful and memorable occasion for our school community.
We are reminded of the words of Jesus:
“Let the little children come to me, and do not stop them, for the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these.”
(Matthew 19:14)
LITTLE WAY WEEK
This week we have been celebrating Little Way Week in school. Little Way Week is inspired by St Thérèse of Lisieux, the patron of mission. As a child, St Thérèse dreamed of being a missionary. As she grew older, she realised that most of us are not called to make big, dramatic gestures. Instead, we can share God’s love through small, loving actions every day.
Throughout the week, we have been thinking about the ‘little ways’ we can show kindness and help those around us.
In Year 1, the children learned about St Thérèse and her ‘Little Way’. They discovered that even small acts of kindness can make a big difference. The children tried to follow her example by helping each other in simple ways – tidying the classroom without being asked, sharing their things, and speaking kind words to friends who were feeling sad. These small acts of love made the classroom a happier and more caring place, just as St Thérèse taught.
As part of Little Way Week, Year 2 were busy showing appreciation for the dedicated members of our school community by writing thoughtful thank-you cards. These special notes were created for our office staff, cleaners, caretaker, headteacher and others who work tirelessly to keep everything running smoothly. The children’s kind words and colourful messages were a lovely way to recognise the hard work and dedication of our school community, and they were deeply appreciated by the staff who received them, bringing smiles and warm moments to their day.
LITTLE WAY WEEK
This week we have been celebrating Little Way Week in school. Little Way Week is inspired by St Thérèse of Lisieux, the patron of mission. As a child, St Thérèse dreamed of being a missionary. As she grew older, she realised that most of us are not called to make big, dramatic gestures. Instead, we can share God’s love through small, loving actions every day.
Throughout the week, we have been thinking about the ‘little ways’ we can show kindness and help those around us.
In Year 1, the children learned about St Thérèse and her ‘Little Way’. They discovered that even small acts of kindness can make a big difference. The children tried to follow her example by helping each other in simple ways – tidying the classroom without being asked, sharing their things, and speaking kind words to friends who were feeling sad. These small acts of love made the classroom a happier and more caring place, just as St Thérèse taught.
As part of Little Way Week, Year 2 were busy showing appreciation for the dedicated members of our school community by writing thoughtful thank-you cards. These special notes were created for our office staff, cleaners, caretaker, headteacher and others who work tirelessly to keep everything running smoothly. The children’s kind words and colourful messages were a lovely way to recognise the hard work and dedication of our school community, and they were deeply appreciated by the staff who received them, bringing smiles and warm moments to their day.
In Year 3, the children completed their ‘Good Deed’ Bingo charts. Each good deed they completed was one of their own ‘little ways’ of helping others in school. These acts of kindness showed that even small gestures can make a big difference to those around us.
In Year 4, the children had a special visit from Father Cooke, who came to talk about Little Way Week and the life of St Thérèse. Father Cooke shared how simple acts of kindness and love can change the lives of others.
After his visit, the children reflected on how they could follow St Thérèse’s example. Each child wrote on a heart-shaped card either a ‘little way’ they planned to do this week or a short prayer to St Thérèse. These beautiful hearts are now displayed in the classroom as a reminder that even the smallest actions, when done with love, can be powerful.
“St Thérèse, Flower of Jesus, fill our hearts with your pure love of God. Ask God to grant the favours we place with confidence in your hands.”
CELEBRATING THE MONTH OF THE ROSARY
In October, we embrace the beautiful tradition of honouring Our Lady. While May is known as ‘The Month of Our Lady’, October is a wonderful time to deepen our devotion by praying the Rosary with our children.
Our classes will be dedicating time to pray the Rosary together in school throughout October.
Let’s make this month a special time of prayer and reflection, growing closer to Our Lady and deepening our faith as a school community.
YEAR 3 BECOME MINI VINNIES
On Thursday, Father Henry visited Year 3 and led a special Commissioning Ceremony as they officially became Mini Vinnies. He reminded the children that God calls each of us to be saints in our own special way.
The children proudly said “I do” to the Mini Vinnies promises, then received their badge and bookmark. Father Henry kindly blessed the badges before everyone joined in singing the Mini Vinnies song to end the ceremony.
Year 3 are now excited to get started with their “See, Think, Do” mission. Keep an eye out for their Mini Vinnies work coming soon!
YEAR 6 SHINE BRIGHTLY AND PROUD
On Tuesday evening, our Year 6 children were fantastic ambassadors for the school. They took a major part in a special Mass at St Marie’s Cathedral in Sheffield, attended by Directors of Education from all the Catholic dioceses in England and Wales. The Mass was hosted by the Diocese of Hallam.
The children led the singing, did the readings, and served on the altar. They were calm, respectful, and prayerful throughout.
Mr Alan Dewhurst, Acting Director of Schools for the Hallam Diocese, said:
“The singing was beautiful, and several people said how moving it was. They also spoke with great praise for the readers and altar servers. Bishop Marcus Stock, the Bishop of Leeds, was very impressed. Congratulations to all involved!”
Many others who were there also said how impressed they were by the children’s excellent behaviour, lovely singing, and clear reading.
A big thank you to all the staff who helped and supported the children. We are very proud of everyone who took part.
#WeWalkWithJesus
Year 6 with Bishop Marcus Stock
ST CLARE’S TRUST MASS – PILGRIMS OF HOPE
Today, our Year 6 children returned to St Marie’s Cathedral to take part in the St Clare Catholic Multi Academy Trust Mass.
The cathedral was full, with over 400 children from almost every school in the Trust. It was a joyful and prayerful celebration, with beautiful music, readings, and reflections.
The theme of the Mass was “Pilgrims of Hope”, marking the Year of Jubilee.
The children sang with great enthusiasm and showed wonderful respect throughout. Two of our pupils took part in the entrance procession, carrying a special symbol of hope on behalf of our school — a picture of our pre-school children with Bishop Ralph. It was a reminder that hope is like our youngest children in school, growing in the light of Jesus.
Well done Year 6 and a big thank you to all the staff who helped prepare and supported the children at the Mass.
#WeWalkWithJesus
FATHER LEE VISITS YEAR 2
On Tuesday we were delighted to welcome Fr. Lee, the new parish priest at St Vincent’s, into our school community. He spent time with our Year 2 children to help introduce their new topic of Baptism.
Father Lee shared engaging stories and explained the special meaning behind important symbols such as the baptismal candle and holy water. The children were fascinated and asked thoughtful questions, showing real curiosity about the sacrament.
It was a joy to have him with us, and we are very grateful for the time he gave. We look forward to building strong links with him as part of our school and parish community.
