Race Equality Week is a poignant time for reflection and action, emphasising the Church’s commitment to the inherent dignity of every person, created in the image of God.

Rooted in the teachings of Jesus, who welcomed all and broke down societal barriers, we are called to actively promote justice, understanding and equality among all races.

This week serves as a reminder that, as members of the same human family, we are called to foster unity, eliminate discrimination and work towards a world where every individual is respected and valued.

Guided by the principles of love, compassion and social justice, we strive to contribute to a society where race is not a source of division but a celebration of the beautiful diversity created by God.

Through prayer, education and advocacy, we seek to build bridges of understanding, fostering a world where all can flourish and live in harmony.

But anyone who hates a brother or sister is in the darkness and walks around in the darkness. They do not know where they are going, because the darkness has blinded them. – 1 John 2:11

Rosa Parks day aligns with the Church’s social teachings that advocate for justice, equality and the dignity of every person.

Rosa Parks, through her courageous act of refusing to give up her bus seat, became a symbol of resistance against racial injustice and segregation. Her commitment to civil rights resonates with the Church’s call to promote human dignity and work towards a more just and compassionate society.

On Rosa Parks day, we are reminded of the Gospel imperative to stand against discrimination and to actively engage in efforts that promote equality and respect for all. It serves as a moment for reflection on the Church’s commitment to social justice and the ongoing work needed to build a world where every individual, regardless of race or background, is treated with the dignity they deserve as children of God.

So God created mankind in his own image, in the image of God he created them; male and female he created them. – Genesis 1:27

World Cancer Day prompts reflection on the Christian call to compassion, solidarity and the alleviation of suffering.

In the face of the global burden of cancer, we are encouraged to embody Christ’s healing ministry by offering prayers, support and comfort to those affected by this devastating disease. We are inspired to advocate for and contribute to medical advancements, compassionate care and efforts to eradicate the causes of cancer.

World Cancer Day becomes an opportunity for us to unite in prayer for those battling cancer, their families and for the medical professionals working tirelessly to provide care.

It reinforces the Christian commitment to uphold the sanctity of life and to stand with those in the midst of health challenges, recognising that the healing mission of Christ extends to the physical, emotional and spiritual dimensions of human existence.

Heal me, LORD, and I will be healed; save me and I will be saved, fo you are the one I praise. – Jeremiah 17:14

Today Miss Blanchette and Mr White took Year 9 and 10 pupils on an immersive French breakfast experience. The pupils were fantastic!

Pupils ordered drinks and breakfast items in French, they learnt how to name items on a table in a restaurant and they solved problems.

They got the opportunity to eat the tasty items of food and drink they ordered. They also tried out the French tradition of dunking their pain au chocolats or croissants into their bowls of hot chocolate!

All pupils got a certificate verifying that they have expanded their cultural capital and they have learnt some fantastic French vocabulary useful for life.

Well done everyone!

Yesterday we hosted a parent study skills support evening for Year 11 parents to learn how to help their child when studying.

Key information was shared on how parents can support their child at whilst preparing for English, Maths, Science, RE and Spanish GCSE exams.

Parents were given tips on how they can help their child structure their revision to maximise the impact it has. They were also shared different metacognition and revision strategies for parents to guide their child to use.

Advice and guidance on how to best utilise GCSEPod to aid revision was also shared. This allowed parents to learn how GCSEPod functions and how it can provide revision content for all areas of study.

For students in our Loyola Academy, key information and strategies were shared on how these students can best prepare and revise for their exams.

It was a great evening and provided lots of information for parents. Thank you to everyone who attended.

Yesterday some of our Year 11 students went to see GCSE Poetry Live! at Birmingham Symphony Hall.

There were performances by several poets who feature on the syllabus of AQA GCSE English Literature, including Simon Armitage, Carol Ann Duffy and John Agard.

The students also got the opportunity to attend sessions by exam board Chief Examiners. These session were great and helped the students with their preparations for their GCSE Literature exams.

It was a great time had by all and the students now have a new zeal for the poems they are studying.