Celebrating Saint David’s Day

1st March 2024Rhiannon Watts-Robinson

This Saint David’s Day, we join in celebrating the life and legacy of this beloved saint, who holds a special place in the hearts of the faithful, particularly those in Wales. Saint David’s Day is more than a cultural celebration; it is an opportunity to reflect on the spiritual significance of this saint’s life and teachings.

Saint David, also known as Dewi Sant, is revered for his humility, piety and commitment to serving God and others. Born in the 6th century, he dedicated his life to spreading the Gospel and establishing monastic communities that embodied the values of prayer, simplicity and hospitality. As Catholics, we look to Saint David as a model of holiness and discipleship, inspired by his unwavering faith and devotion to Christ.

The virtues exemplified by Saint David – humility, compassion and perseverance – continue to resonate with Catholics today. His humility, demonstrated in his simple lifestyle and selfless service, challenges us to set aside our pride and ego, embracing the path of humility and service. Saint David’s compassion for the poor and marginalised reminds us of our call to love our neighbours as ourselves, especially those in need. And his perseverance in the face of adversity inspires us to remain steadfast in our faith, trusting in God’s providence and grace.

On Saint David’s Day, we have the opportunity to deepen our relationship with this holy saint through prayer and devotion. We can turn to Saint David as an intercessor, asking for his prayers and guidance in our own lives. Whether through reciting prayers dedicated to Saint David or reflecting on his life and teachings, we can draw inspiration and strength from his example of faithfulness and dedication to God.

As we celebrate Saint David’s Day, let us recommit ourselves to living out the legacy of this holy saint in our own lives. May we strive to embody the virtues of humility, compassion and perseverance, following in the footsteps of Saint David as faithful disciples of Christ. And may we continue to draw inspiration from his life and teachings, seeking to spread the light of Christ in our communities and beyond.

Saint David’s Day is a time of celebration and reflection, inviting us to honour the life and legacy of this holy saint, As we commemorate Saint David’s Day, may we be inspired by his virtues, guided by his example, and uplifted by his intercession. And may we continue to draw closer to God. following in the footsteps of Saint David as we journey toward holiness and eternal life.

How beautiful on the mountains are the feet of those who bring good news, who proclaim peace, who bring good tidings, who proclaim salvation, who say to Zion, “Your God reigns!” – Isaiah 52:7

Nurturing Minds, Shaping Souls: National School Governors Awareness Day

29th February 2024Rhiannon Watts-Robinson

National School Governors Awareness Day serves as a reminder of the vital roles that school governors play in shaping the educational landscape of our communities. The role of school governors extends beyond administrative duties; it encompasses the sacred mission of nurturing young minds and shaping souls.

At the heart of Catholic education lies the principle of stewardship – the recognition that education is a precious gift entrusted to us by God. School governors, as stewards of this gift, are tasked with ensuring that every child receives an education that nourishes their mind, body and spirit.

In the footsteps of Jesus, who came not to be served but to serve, the governors of our Academy embrace the ethos of servant leadership. Their role is not one of authority and control, but of humble service and selfless dedication to the well-being of students, families and staff. Rooted in the Gospel values of love, compassion and justice, servant leaders prioritise the needs of others above their own, seeking to create inclusive and supportive educational communities where all can flourish.

In discerning the direction and policies of a school, Catholic governors are guided by the Holy Spirit and the teachings of the Church. They are called to discern God’s will for the school community, seeking wisdom and insight in prayer and reflection. By grounding their decisions in Gospel values and the rich tradition of Catholic social teaching, governors ensure that the mission of Catholic education remains central in all aspects of school life.

Our governors play a pivotal role in fostering a sense of community and unity within the Academy. They collaborate with parents, teachers, clergy and the local authority to create an environment where all members feel valued, respected and supported. Through their leadership and example, governors cultivate a culture of solidarity and cooperation, working towards the common good and the flourishing of every individual entrusted to their care.

On National School Governors Awareness Day, let us give thanks for the dedication and service of our Academy governors who labour tirelessly to uphold the mission of Catholic education. May their leadership be guided by the principles of stewardship, servant leadership, discernment and community-building, ensuring that every child receives an education that nurtures their mind, body and soul. Together, let us continue to work towards the transformation of hearts and minds, building a world where education is a pathway to holiness and human flourishing.

There are different kinds of working, but in all of them and in everyone it is the same God at work. – 1 Corinthians 12:6

Year 10 Collect Food For St Edmund’s Larder

26th February 2024Rhiannon Watts-Robinson

Before the half term holiday, 10JDE delivered an assembly on St Vincent de Paul.

St Vincent de Paul is primarily recognised for his charity and compassion towards others.

As part of their assembly, 10JDE set a challenge to the other year 10 tutor groups to collect items for the Academy’s food bank, St Edmund’s Larder. Each tutor group was given a box to place in their tutor room and were asked to fill it before half term with food items.

Year 10 rose to the challenge and collected a staggering amount of food for the Larder. These items were delivered on Friday 9th February.

A massive well done to all in 10JDE who helped organise this event and a huge thank you to all year 10 students and tutors who collected food and donated so generously.

St Edmund’s Larder is open for all who need it. Students, staff, parents and carers are invited to donate what they can and to take what they need.

Every day they continued to meet together in the temple courts. They broke bread in their homes and ate together with glad and sincere heart, – Acts 2:46

Embracing Healing: Eating Disorder Awareness Week

26th February 2024Rhiannon Watts-Robinson

As Eating Disorder Awareness Week unfolds, it offers a poignant opportunity for us to reflect on the importance of mental and physical health. In a world often fixated on external appearances and unrealistic standards, faith provides a unique framework for understanding and addressing eating disorders with compassion, grace and hope.

At the heart of our faith lies the belief in the inherent dignity and worth of every human. yet, those battling eating disorders often grapple with distorted self-images, shame and isolation. For the earliest days of the Church, the importance of caring for both the body and soul has been emphasised. Eating disorders are not simply physical ailments but also spiritual and emotional struggles.

Central to Christ’s ministry was His compassion for the marginalised, the suffering and the broken-hearted. Similarly, we are called to extend that same compassion to those wrestling with eating disorders. Rather than passing judgement, we are called to walk alongside them with empathy, understanding and support. Our words and actions should convey the message of God’s unconditional love and acceptance.

Eating disorders thrive in silence and secrecy, perpetuated by societal stigma and misconceptions. We are called to be agents of change, fostering communities of understanding, support and inclusion. By openly discussing eating disorders, educating ourselves and others, and advocating for access to quality care, we can help dismantle the barriers that prevent individuals from seeking help and receiving the support they need.

During Eating Disorder Awareness Week and beyond, let us commit ourselves to embodying the compassionate love of Christ in our interactions with those affected by eating disorders. May we be beacons of hope, offering comfort, encouragement and solidarity to all who are on the path to recovery. Together, let us embrace healing, affirming the inherent dignity and worth of every individual as beloved children of God.

But for you who revere my name, the sun of righteousness will rise with healing in its rays. And you will go out and frolic like well-fed calves – Malachi 4:2

If you want to speak to someone about this topic please see the link for contact information: https://www.beateatingdisorders.org.uk/get-information-and-support/

Reflecting on the Second Sunday of Lent

25th February 2024Rhiannon Watts-Robinson

As we journey through the season of Lent, the Second Sunday emerges as a pivotal moment of introspection and transformation in the Catholic faith. This Sunday, we are called to reflect deeply on the profound narrative of Jesus’ Transfiguration on Mount Tabor. The Gospel accounts of Matthew, Mark and Luke vividly depict this extraordinary event, where Jesus, accompanied by Peter, James and John, is transfigured before them, his face shining like the sun and his clothes dazzling white. This divine manifestation not only reveals Jesus’ true glory but also foreshadows the Paschal mystery, reminding us of the ultimate purpose of Christ’s earthly ministry: redemption and salvation.

In contemplating the Transfiguration, we are invited to consider its relevance in our own spiritual journey. Like Peter, James and John, we too are called to ascend the metaphorical mountaintop of prayer and encounter the radiance of God’s presence. Lent offers us the opportunity to embark on this transformative journey, to draw closer to the divine and allow ourselves to be transfigures by the grace of God.

However, the path to transformation is often marked by challenges and trials. In the Gospel narrative, we see how Peter, in his awe and confusion, suggest building three tents for Jesus, Moses and Elijah, seeking to prolong the moment of divine revelation. Yet, even as he speaks, a cloud overshadows them, and a voice from heaven declares, “This is my beloved Son, with whom I am well pleased; listen to him” (Matthew 17:5). This admonition serves as a gentle reminder for us to let go of our attachments to fleeting experiences and to fix our gaze on Christ alone.

The Transfiguration narrative underscores the interconnectedness of the Old and New Testaments. The presence of Moses, representing the Law, and Elijah, representing the prophets, signifies the fulfillment of Scripture in Jesus Christ. As we journey through Lent, we are called to immerse ourselves in the richness of Scripture, allowing its timeless truths to illuminate our path and guide our steps.

The Second Sunday of Lent beckons us to embrace transformation wholeheartedly. It urges to relinquish our preconceived notions and open ourselves to the wondrous possibilities that lie ahead. Through prayer, fasting, and almsgiving, may we cultivate hearts that are receptive to God’s grace, minds that are attuned to His wisdom, and spirits that are ablaze with His love. May this Lenten season be a time of profound renewal and spiritual awakening, leading us ever closer to the radiant presence of Christ, who is the source of our hope and the fulfillment of our deepest longings.

All the ends of the earth will remember and turn to the LORD, and all the families of the nations will bow down before him, – Psalm 22:27

Mr Boland’s Lent Challenge

23rd February 2024Rhiannon Watts-Robinson

This Lent, Mr Boland has set the challenge to do 5000 push ups.

Along with his tutor, classes and neighbouring teaching staff, Mr Boland is hoping to achieve 1000 push ups a week to raise money for our Academy charities this Lent.

Yesterday he completed another set of push ups with his Year 9 class. Well done to Michael for completing 30!

Thank you Mr Boland for your wonderful effort in support our charities this Lent. We’re with you for every push!

Celebrating Mother Language Day

21st February 2024Rhiannon Watts-Robinson

Mother Language Day serves as a poignant reminder of the importance of linguistic diversity and the cultural heritage embedded within each language. As Catholics, we recognise the intrinsic value of languages, understanding them as pathways to express faith, culture and identity.

From Latin to Spanish, English to Swahili, each language holds a unique place within the Church, offering a lens through which the Gospel is proclaimed and celebrated. The rich tapestry of languages mirrors the universal nature of the Catholic faith, transcending cultural and geographical boundaries.

One of the most profound ways in which languages manifest within Catholicism is through liturgy and prayer. Mass is celebrated in various languages, allowing communities to worship and connect with God in their mother tongue. Whether reciting the Lord’s Prayer, chanting hymns, or reading scripture, the beauty of language enhances our spiritual experience, deepening our connection to God and each other.

Languages are not merely tools of communication; they are repositories of culture, heritage and identity. In our faith, languages serve as vessels through which traditions are passed down from generation to generation. Whether it be prayers or sacred texts, languages preserves the essence of our cultural identity and unites us with our ancestors who have gone before us in faith.

On this Mother Language Day, we are reminded of the importance of promoting unity and understanding among people of different linguistic backgrounds. The Catholic Church, with its commitment to inclusivity and solidarity, embraces diversity as a reflection of God’s creative design. By honouring and respecting each other’s languages and cultures, we foster a sense of belonging and mutual respect within our global community of faith.

As we commemorate Mother Language Day, let us celebrate the beauty of linguistic diversity within our faith. May we recognise the inherent value of languages as expressions of God’s abundant creativity and grace. Let us embrace our mother tongues with pride, knowing that they are precious gifts entrusted to us by our loving Creator. Through our languages, amy we continue to proclaim the Good News and build bridges of unity and understanding in a world longing for harmony and peace.

Undoubtedly there are all sorts of languages in the world. yet none of them is without meaning. – 1 Corinthians 14:10

St Francis De Sales Poetry Competition

21st February 2024Rhiannon Watts-Robinson

Today the winners of the English Department poetry competition were announced. This competition was held to celebrate St Francis de Sales Feast Day (24/01). Students were asked to write a poem about why they love creative writing. The top prize was a book with runners up being award a bookmark.

Well done to Leah, Imogen and our third winner! Your poems were fantastic.

Thank you Miss Baker for running the competition.

Register for Elevate’s Parent Webinar Series This Term

20th February 2024Rhiannon Watts-Robinson

Elevate Education delivers high-impact workshops to our students that help to develop their study skills, motivation, and exam preparation. Over the next term, you’re invited to join their parent webinar series, where you can help support your child at home by reinforcing the skills they’re learning at school.

Upcoming Webinars:

  • How You Can Help Your Child Prepare for Exams – 5th March 6:00pm
  • How You Can Support Your Child During Exams – 19th March 6:00pm

Register for the series by clicking the link below and learn some great practical strategies to help support your child this year.

https://go.elevateeducation.com/ukschoolwebinar

SS Mary and John Pupil Liturgy

20th February 2024Rhiannon Watts-Robinson

Today we welcomed Year 5 pupils from SS Mary and John’s Catholic Primary Academy.

The pupils had the opportunity to learn about the Academy. They looked around the Peace Garden at the different places of reflection and the celebration of our students.

The pupils answered questions about the stations of the cross, the current liturgical season and why these are important. They were also told about the Catholic ethos at St Edmund’s, including our CARE values.

 

Following this, the pupils sang in the chapel and held a liturgy. They lead liturgy with great respect and allowed for everyone to be involved. After the blessing, the pupils sang again with much joy and excitement.

 

It was a wonderful experience to have the pupils of another of our MAC academies join us here at St Edmund’s. Their passion and joy for learning and faith was inspiring.

We hope to see the pupil’s of SS Mary and John’s again soon!