World Day of Social Justice

20th February 2024Rhiannon Watts-Robinson

In a World marked by inequality, poverty and injustice, the World Day of Social Justice stands as a poignant reminder of our collective responsibility to pursue fairness and equality for all. As Catholics, we are called to heed this call with fervor and compassion, inspired by the teachings of Jesus Christ to love our neighbours as ourselves.

At the heart of Catholic social teaching lies the principle of solidarity, which urges us to recognise the inherent dignity of every human and to stand in solidarity with the marginalised and oppressed.

As we commemorate the World Day of Social Justice, let us recommit ourselves to the pursuit of justice and peace in our communities and beyond. Let us strive to build a world where everyone, regardless of their background or circumstances, can flourish and thrive.

In the words of Pope Francis, “Each individual Christian and every community is called to be an instrument of God for the liberation and promotion of the poor, and for enabling them to be fully a part of society.” May we embrace this call with courage and compassion, knowing that in serving others, we are truly serving our Lord.

On this World Day of Social Justice, let us pray for the strength and guidance to be agents of change in a world hungering for justice and solidarity. Together, let us strive to create a more just and equitable world, where the light of Christ’s love shines brightly for all to see.

Defend the weak and the fatherless; uphold the cause of the poor and the oppressed. Rescue the weak and the needy; deliver them from the hand of the wicked. – Psalm 82:3-4

Leading Parent Partnership Meeting 2

19th February 2024Rhiannon Watts-Robinson

Our next Leading Parent Partnership Meeting is Wednesday 10th April.

If you wish to attend, please inform Mrs Letheren or call the Academy to register your interest.

Youth Council Representatives 2024

19th February 2024Rhiannon Watts-Robinson

Congratulations to Daniel S and Oghenerioborifori E on their election to Wolverhampton Youth Council.

Their achievement was recognised with a certificate presentations from Councillor Stephen Simpkins (Leader of the Council(, His Rt Worshipful Mayor of Wolverhampton Cllr Dr Michael hardacre and Alison Hinds (Director of Children’s Services).

Congratulations Zion!

19th February 2024Rhiannon Watts-Robinson

Last week, Zion Ellis-White (Year 10) took part in his first dance competition for 2024.

His effort was rewarded with three amazing results. In the Over 17 Advanced Street Crew he came second. He also achieved two first place results for Under 16’s Intermediate Duo and Under 16’s Intermediate Solo.

Congratulations to Zion on his brilliant achievement!

Embracing Lent – Returning to the Academy

19th February 2024Rhiannon Watts-Robinson

Welcome back to another half term here at St Edmund’s!

As the half term break draws to a close and the students return to the familiar corridors of the Academy, there’s a sense of transition in the air. The break offered a moment to recharge before diving back into the rhythm of academic life. But beyond the routine of lessons, there’s another journey beginning – the journey of Lent.

Lent is a time marked by introspection, sacrifice and renewal. As we step back into the classroom, there’s an opportunity to approach our studies with a renewed sense of purpose and mindfulness.

Lent offers us a reminder to pause, to evaluate our priorities and to realign our actions with our faith. It’s a time to consider not only what we’re giving up but also what we’re giving back – to our communities, to those in need and to ourselves.

As we navigate school life, let’s remember the spirit of Lent – the spirit of compassion, forgiveness and growth. Let’s use this time to cultivate a culture of empathy and understanding within our school community. Let’s strive to be the best versions of ourselves, both academically and morally.

So, as we return to the Academy after half term, let’s carry with us the lessons of Lent. Let’s approach each day with intention and grace, knowing that our actions have the power to make a difference – not only in our lives but also in the lives of those around us.

First Sunday of Lent

18th February 2024Rhiannon Watts-Robinson

The first Sunday of Lent, also known as “Lenten Sunday”, marks the beginning of the journey through this season towards Easter.

On this day, we reflect on the temptation of Jesus in the desert, as recounted in the Gospel readings. It serves as a reminder of the spiritual battles faced in life and the importance of relying on God’s strength to resist temptation.

The readings and liturgy of today invite us to deepen our commitment to prayer, fasting and almsgiving as we strive to emulate Jesus’ example of humility, obedience and trust in God’s providence.

The first Sunday of Lent sets the tone for the entire season, encouraging us to renew our dedication to spiritual growth and transformation in preparation for the celebration of Christ’s resurrection.

Whoever dwells in the shelter of the Most High will rest in the shadow of the Almighty. I will say of the LORD, “He is my refuge and my fortress, my God, in whom I trust.” – Psalm 91:1-2

Lent 2024

14th February 2024Rhiannon Watts-Robinson

Lent is a time of introspection, repentance and spiritual renewal.

Lasting approximately 40 days, it mirrors Jesus Christ’s 40 days of fasting in the desert.

We use this period as an opportunity to draw closer to God through prayer, fasting and acts of charity.

By sacrificing indulgences and worldly distractions, we seek to deepen our relationship with God and grow in holiness.

Lent encourages self-discipline, reflection on one’s sins and a commitment to living out the Gospel more fully. It’s a time for us to focus on our spiritual journey, to repent for past wrongs, and to prepare our hearts to fully embrace the joy of Easter and the resurrection of Jesus Christ.

At once the Spirit sent him out into the wilderness, and he was in the wilderness for forty days, being tempted by Satan. He was with the wild animals and angels attended him. – Mark 1:12-13

Saint Valentine’s Feast Day

14th February 2024Rhiannon Watts-Robinson

Saint Valentine’s Feast Day commemorates Saint Valentine, a Christian martyr who lived in ancient Rome.

Whilst historical detailed about Saint Valentine are somewhat obscured, he is widely revered as a patron saint of love, marriage and relationships.

On this day, we honour his legacy of compassion and devotion be expressing affection for their loved ones, friends and family members.

Saint Valentine’s Feast Day serves as a reminder of the Christian call to love one another as God loves us, and it encourages us to deepen our relationship through acts of kindness, generosity and selflessness.

It is an opportunity for us to reflect on the importance of love in our lives and to embrace the virtues of patience, forgiveness and compassion exemplified by Saint Valentine.

Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It does not dishonour others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres. – 1 Corinthians 13:4-7

Ash Wednesday

14th February 2024Rhiannon Watts-Robinson

Ash Wednesday marks the beginning of Lent, a solemn season of reflection, repentance and renewal.

On this day, we receive ashes on our foreheads in the shape of a cross, symbolising mortality and penance. The ashes are made from the blessed palms used in the previous year’s Palm Sunday celebration, signifying the cycle of life, death and resurrection.

Ash Wednesday invites us to acknowledge our mortality, turn away from sin and commit themselves to a period of fasting, prayer and almsgiving. It serves as a poignant reminder of the need for spiritual purification and the transformative power of God’s grace in preparing hearts for the joyous celebration of Easter.

for he knows how we are formed, he remembers that we are dust. – Psalm 103:14

Shrove Tuesday

13th February 2024Rhiannon Watts-Robinson

Shrove Tuesday holds special significance in the Catholic tradition as the day preceding the start of Lent. It marks a time of preparation before the solemn season of fasting, prayer and reflection leading up to Easter.

On this day, it is traditional to indulge in rich and decadent foods, symbolising the last opportunity for feasting before the austerity of Lent begins.

It’s a time for us to confess our sin – the term shrove comes from the Old English 2shrive2, meaning to confess. As a result of this we can receive absolution and enter into a period of spiritual renewal.

In essence, Shrove Tuesday serves as a reminder of the importance of self-examination, repentance and spiritual discipline in the journey toward Easter’s celebration of resurrection and redemption.

“Even now,” declares the LORD, “return to me with all your heart, with fasting and weeping and mourning.” – Joel 2:12