Remembrance Day

11th November 2023Rhiannon Watts-Robinson

Remembrance Day, observed in many countries to honour the fallen soldiers and civilians who have made sacrifices during times of conflict, holds a profound place in our hearts as it echoes the values of peace, compassion, and solidarity deeply embedded in our faith. This solemn day serves as a reminder of the essential role of forgiveness and reconciliation in the pursuit of peace. It calls us to pray for the souls of those who have died in service, as well as for the healing of those who have been affected by the wounds of war. In our faith, we find strength in the teachings of Jesus Christ, who blessed the peacemakers and encouraged us to love our enemies. As we remember the sacrifices made on Remembrance Day, we are urged to work tirelessly towards a world free from the scourge of war, where justice and harmony prevail, drawing inspiration from our Catholic principles of forgiveness, mercy, and unity.

Even though I walk through the darkest valley, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rodĀ  and staff, they comfort me. – Psalm 23:4

Year 7 Remembrance and Careers Talk

10th November 2023Rhiannon Watts-Robinson

Today the history department delivered a lesson on Remembrance to year 7 students to honour those who served to defend our democratic freedoms and way of life.

A member of the British Army also came along to give students an insight into the potential career opportunities within the service.

The students thoroughly enjoyed the interactive army presentation and left with a positive experience of opportunities in the Armed Forces.

Students Attend Careers Fair at Dunstall Racecourse

10th November 2023Rhiannon Watts-Robinson

On Friday 20th October, a group of students from Year 10 and Year 11 attended a Careers Fair at Dunstall Racecourse to find out more information from employers and educational providers in our region.

Exhibitors ranged from universities, colleges and specialist companies, to apprenticeship providers such as the local authority, all providing opportunities for people aged 16 and older who may have a wide range of qualifications.

This was a good opportunity for them to explore possible future pathways and to clarify options, even if they were not sure what they wanted to do after Year 11. We were fortunate with our booking slot as it was the end of the day. This allowed us good access to all of the organisation as there were fewer people present.

All of the students were excellent ambassadors for the school and many spoke confidently to the exhibitors. Everyone who attended thought it was useful.

Mr White, one of the accompanying members of staff, thought we were fortunate that such an event had been organised and that he found some useful information as well.

One pupil said “I’m really glad I spoke with them because it reassured me about the grades I need for the course.”

Another pupil said “There was some good information about training to work in cyber security.”

Photo L-R: Daniyal. Archie, Binyameen, Sarnelli

Remembrance Assembly

10th November 2023Rhiannon Watts-Robinson

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

Dedication of the Lateran Basilica

9th November 2023Rhiannon Watts-Robinson

The Lateran Basilica, also known as the Archbasilica of St. John Lateran, stands as a remarkable testament to centuries of devotion and faith. Its dedication is a profound and enduring symbol of the enduring connection between the Christian faithful and their spiritual heritage. Originally consecrated in the 4th century by Pope Sylvester I, the Lateran Basilica has undergone numerous renovations and transformations over the centuries. Its dedication reaffirms the significance of this sacred space as the “Mother and Head of All Churches in the City and the World,” a title bestowed upon it by virtue of its status as the Cathedral of the Bishop of Rome and, consequently, the highest-ranking church in the Catholic Church. The unwavering reverence bestowed upon this basilica serves as a reminder of the unbroken tradition of Christianity and its central place in the hearts of believers for over a millennium.

Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles. And let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us, fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith. For joy set before him he endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. – Hebrews 12:1-2

Social Media Kindness Day

9th November 2023Rhiannon Watts-Robinson

Social Media Kindness Day embodies the spirit of charity and compassion that lies at the core of Christian teachings. In a world where digital communication has become an integral part of our lives, this observance encourages us to apply the principles of love and empathy in our online interactions. It reminds us of the importance of treating others with respect, dignity, and understanding, regardless of differences or disagreements. Social media platforms can be powerful tools for spreading love and goodwill, but they can also be sources of division and negativity. On this day, we are called to be mindful of the words we use, the images we share, and the attitudes we project on social media. By practicing kindness and fostering a sense of unity in the virtual realm, we can exemplify the teachings of Christ and contribute to a more harmonious and compassionate digital community.

Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you. – Ephesians 4:32

Help Your Parish Celebrate Youth Sunday!

6th November 2023Mrs D Curtis

In November 2020, Pope Francis called for a relaunch of National Youth Sunday and moving forward asked the global Catholic community to celebrate locally on the Solemnity of Christ the King.

It will be a day for the world to recognise and celebrate young people in our local church communities, whether that be through school, at home, or of course in church.

Please join us at Blessed Carlo Acutis parish on Sunday 26th November, for the 11:30 am Mass at St Michaelā€™s church, Coalway Rd, Penn, to help us celebrate our wonderful young people. If you attend Mass at another parish, then please make an effort to go to the Mass where they will celebrate this.

 

Lower School Prefect Appointments

25th October 2023Mrs D Curtis

It gives me great pleasureĀ to announce that Jayden Inigo, Noah Letheren, Kash Kumar, Oliver Green, Paulina Prause, Victoria Kidson and Daisy Winwood have been selected as the Lower School Prefects.

All pupils involved submitted fantastic letters of application and the interviews showed off their strengths. I would like to congratulate all those who were part of the process and you really are a credit to the academy.

Mr Selvey (Head of Lower School).

 

David Debut’s for Austria Under 16’s

24th October 2023Mrs D Curtis

David Osifo, a Year 11 student, was called up to the Austria under-16s squad for two friendly matches against Slovenia earlier this month.

David started, played 67 minutes, and claimed an assist in the first game, a 6-1 victory, before coming on for the final 22 minutes as Austria claimed another win, this time by two goals to one.

Congratulations to David for making his debut for Austria and helping to secure the 2-1 victory over Slovenia.

 

Photo: David Osifo

 

 

 

 

 

Charities 2023/24

24th October 2023Mrs D Curtis

The voting process is now finished, and students have determined the charities they wish to support this academic year. Compton Care, Breast Cancer Awareness, and Save the Children will be the beneficiaries of the fundraising efforts undertaken by the students during this year. Notably, students are already devising strategies to surpass the previous year’s fundraising total of Ā£3,072.