St Edmund’s is working towards achieving The LiveSimply Award, an opportunity for school
communities to respond to the Church’s call to live simply, sustainably and in solidarity with the world’s poorest. It is an opportunity to follow in the footsteps of Jesus who lived and preached a simple life, and to take meaningful action on the ecological crisis we face today.

A discrete area of the academy is now set up as a food bank called St Edmund’s Larder. We are inviting tutor groups, staff, parents and carers to donate items of tinned/dried food, toiletries, household products and non-perishable items. All donations can be taken to the Chapel.

If your family are in need of supplies please ask your child to call into the Chapel and a bag of
provisions will be provided.

Together we can impact our global family, our local community and our school.

The Solemnity of Our Lord Jesus Christ, King of the Universe, marks the culmination of the liturgical year in the Catholic Church, serving as a powerful reminder of Christ’s eternal kingship and sovereignty over all creation. Observed on the last Sunday of the liturgical calendar, this solemnity emphasizes the cosmic dimensions of Christ’s reign, acknowledging Him as the Alpha and the Omega, the beginning and the end. In celebrating this feast, we reflect on the Gospel of Matthew, where Jesus identifies Himself as the king who will judge the nations. It prompts contemplation of Christ’s role not only as a spiritual guide but as the ultimate authority over the entire cosmos. The imagery of Christ as the cosmic King invites us to ponder the implications of His lordship in every aspect of life, recognizing His reign as a source of hope, justice, and divine love that extends beyond the temporal confines of our world.

The LORD reigns; he is robed in majesty; the LORD is robed in majesty and armed with strength; indeed, the world is established, firm and secure. Your throne was established long ago; you are from all eternity – Psalm 93:1-2

Fundraising the St Edmund’s way – read about our fundraising efforts on the CAFOD blog: https://blog.cafod.org.uk/2023/11/21/do-fundraising-your-way/

Saint Cecilia is revered as the patron saint of musicians, and her life is shrouded in both historical accounts and legendary tales. According to Christian tradition, Cecilia lived in Rome during the 2nd or 3rd century AD and was a devout Christian who dedicated her life to God. Legend has it that she was betrothed to a pagan named Valerian but had already consecrated herself to a life of chastity. During her wedding ceremony, it is said that Cecilia sang to God in her heart, and an angel supposedly played heavenly music. Cecilia’s devotion to her faith and her musical talents led to her enduring association with music. She is often depicted with a musical instrument, usually a harp, and is celebrated with music festivals and concerts in her honor. Saint Cecilia’s legacy lives on as a symbol of faith, purity, and the transcendent power of music.

Her musical legacy provides great inspiration for our students in how they can connect to God through their talents. On her feast day we think of our Performing Arts department and their dedication to worship through song.

Make a joyful noise to the LORD, all the earth! Serve the LORD with gladness! Come into his presence with singing! – Psalm 100:1-2

This year at St Edmund’s we had another successful charity campaign for the Royal British Legion. Our funds were part of thousands raised across the country in support of armed forces personnel and veterans.

Thank you to everyone who donated through the poppy appeal.

Today the Academy held two assemblies for Remembrance Day, lead by Mrs Harris, Associate Assistant Principal of Religious Education. These allowed a moment of reflection and contemplation of those we have lost and the events at play in the world today. All were invited to remember and pray for peace and unity in our world.

The main talk of the assemblies was given by Mr Tim Richards, a royal marine commando, who told the story of his life and the experiences he had that lead him to where he is now. He explained how his wanting to change the world for the better changed the direction of his life. His memorial to his fallen friends and colleagues served as a poignant moment of reflection for the loss that war brings. The pictures of his experiences allowed the students to understand more of why remembrance is important.

But the souls of the righteous are in the hand of God,
and no torment will ever touch them.
In the eyes of the foolish they seemed the have died,
and their departure was thought to be an affliction,
and their going from us to be their destruction;
but they are at peace.
For though i the sight of men they were punished,
their hop is full of immortality.
Having been disciplined a little, they will receive great good,
because God tested them and found them worthy of himself;
like gold in the furnace he tried them,
and like a sacrificial burnt offering he accepted them.
In the time of their visitation they will shine forth,
and will run like sparks through the stubble.
They will govern nations and rule over peoples,
and the Lord will reign over them for ever.
Those who trust in him will understand truth,
and the faithful will abide with him in love,
because grace and mercy are upon his elect,
and he watched over his holy ones.

– Wisdom 3:1-9