Solemnity of the Ascension

18th May 2023Mrs D Curtis

On this day we commemorate the ascension of Jesus into Heaven, an act that showed his power over death and inaugurating his reign over heaven and earth as the Living King. While we do not hold this divine power as Jesus did, we are able to be God-like in the small acts we accomplish. This is a day for joy, celebration, and reflection with God.

Then the eleven disciples went to Galilee, to the mountain where Jesus had told them to go. When they saw him, they worshipped him; but some doubted. Then Jesus came to them and said, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.” – Matthew 28:16-20

Care Award Achievements

17th May 2023Mrs D Curtis

Prior to the half term, the unveiling of the Care award boards took place in our tranquil Peace garden, with Mrs. Hazeldine, Principal, officiating the ceremony. These prominent boards proudly showcase the names of all the students who have been recognized for their outstanding achievements in attaining the Bronze and Silver CARE Awards.

During the unveiling, students were present to witness this momentous occasion and received heartfelt congratulations for their remarkable accomplishments. It is important to acknowledge that every recipient of the CARE Award has made a substantial impact on both their environment and the broader community, and their dedication is genuinely appreciated by all.

Once again, congratulations are in order for all our esteemed CARE award winners, and we eagerly anticipate the inclusion of additional names next year as more students aspire to achieve the Gold and Platinum levels.

Duke of Edinburgh Training Days

17th May 2023Mrs D Curtis

From Thursday 4th to Saturday 6th May, Year 9 and 10 students embarked on their Duke of Edinburgh Training days at Standon Bowers Outdoor Education Centre, aiming to achieve their Bronze and Silver awards. This immersive trip encompassed a comprehensive range of activities, including route planning, honing navigation skills, proficiently setting up tents, participating in first aid scenarios, mastering the art of cooking on camping stoves, and, of course, engaging in invigorating hikes.

Each day, the students embarked on foot, carrying their essential supplies, traversing an impressive distance of over 12 kilometers. Throughout their expeditions, they encountered diverse weather conditions, experiencing rain and sunshine, navigating through muddy terrain, and encountering various forms of wildlife. Furthermore, the students had the privilege of receiving a guided tour of a local pumping station, accompanied by a captivating history lesson pertaining to the area.

This trip provided the students with an abundance of cherished memories, while effectively preparing them for the upcoming qualifying expedition scheduled for June. Congratulations are in order for the attending students, as their unwavering determination, tireless efforts, and exemplary conduct demonstrated them to be outstanding ambassadors for St Edmunds.

 

 

Year 10 Introduced to T-Levels and Apprenticeships

16th May 2023Mrs D Curtis

On 11th May Walsall College delivered a presentation to Year 10 students at St Edmund’s Catholic Academy.

This was an informative event aimed at introducing students to T-Levels and Apprenticeships.

T Levels offer students practical and knowledge-based learning and on-the-job experience through an industry placement of at least 315 hours – approximately 45 days.

The objective was to provide them with a comprehensive understanding of the diverse range of career paths they can pursue and the corresponding qualifications required to achieve their goals.

Find out more: https://bit.ly/41Ik5Oj

Higher-Level Apprenticeships Secured By Top Sixth-Formers

16th May 2023Mrs D Curtis

BBC, Airbus, Jaguar Land Rover, Price Waterhouse Coopers (PwC) and AstraZeneca offer fully paid Degree Apprenticeships to top St Edmund’s sixth formers.

Higher-level apprenticeships have been secured by 5 of our top sixth-formers. 

  • Niven Rooprah has secured a Degree Apprenticeship with BBC at the University of York St John for Data Science
  • Martyna Szpojankowska has secured a Degree Apprenticeship with AstraZeneca in Laboratory Science at Northeastern University London (NCL)
  • Navin Sonana has secured a Degree Apprenticeship with Jaguar Land Rover as a Product Design and Development Engineer at the University of Warwick
  • Gjovani Cinari has secured a Degree Apprenticeship with PwC for Business Audit Accounting at the University of Manchester
  • Saad Abdullah has secured a Degree Apprenticeship with Airbus as an Aerospace Engineer at the University of the West of England     

These places are highly sought after and an absolute “golden ticket” combining paid employment within the top businesses in the country and a fully paid degree. 

Many thanks to Mr. Rawal and Mrs. Hogg who lead our careers programme and ensure the best advice and guidance lead to such exciting futures.

 

Photo L-R: Navin Sonana, Niven Rooprah, Gjovani Cinari and Martyna Szpojankowska

Mental Health Awareness Week

15th May 2023Mrs D Curtis
Jesus encouraged us to help those in need. As we think about this year’s theme of anxiety and how it affects people we must also think of how we can support others. It is important that we help those in need and provide a safe space for all people. The world can be fragile. While there are times when people can show great strength, they can also hide their pain. By being patient and kind, we can create a gentle place for people to express their feelings fully and feel the support we give.
Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love. Make every effort to keep unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace. – Ephesians 4:2-3

Dementia Awareness Week

15th May 2023Mrs D Curtis
Dementia Awareness Week is all about supporting people with dementia and making the UK a dementia-friendly place.
Many people with dementia feel cut off from their community, lose friendships and face the condition alone. Every person deserves to be treated with respect. Dementia does not take away a person’s right to this. There are ways that we can help. Whether it’s learning about dementia to have better our knowledge or volunteering with The Alzheimer’s Society, there are many things we can do to make the UK more dementia-friendly.
Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid. – John 14:27

Feast of the English Martyrs

4th May 2023Mrs D Curtis

On this day we remember the martyrdom of 40 men and women who were executed between 1535 and 1679 for treason and related offences under various laws enacted by Parliament during the English Reformation. 25th October is a sister day to this event which commemorates the Welsh members of the group. Amongst these people was our patron saint, St Edmund Campion, who was arrested while conducting an underground Catholic ministry in an officially Anglican England.

Do not be afraid of those who kill the body but cannot kill the soul. Rather, be afraid of the One who can destroy both soul and body in hell. –  Matthew 10:28

Niven Secures BBC Data Science Apprenticeship

3rd May 2023Mrs D Curtis

Niven Rooprah, a Year 13 student, has successfully secured a position in the prestigious BBC Data Science Apprenticeship programme in collaboration with York St John University. This remarkable opportunity will enable Niven to embark on a journey of professional growth and development.

The apprenticeship is based in Salford and adopts a blended learning approach, combining remote instruction with on-site visits to the York St John campuses in York and London. The BBC generously covers all expenses related to accommodation and travel during these visits, ensuring Niven’s seamless participation in the program.

Notably, the government’s apprenticeship levy will fund Niven’s university fees, fully covering the cost of his degree. This invaluable support further enhances Niven’s educational journey.

We take great pride in Niven’s accomplishments thus far and extend our heartfelt wishes for his continued success in all his future endeavors.

Photo: Niven Rooprah