National Apprenticeship Week

5th February 2024Rhiannon Watts-Robinson

National Apprenticeship Week holds a special significance for our school. While highlighting the alternative pathways a child can follow in their post-16 education, it also aligns with the principles of social justice and community service deeply rooted in Catholic teachings.

Embracing the spirit of solidarity and subsidiarity, this week a platform for fostering economic empowerment and dignity through meaningful work and skill development. Apprenticeships can be seen as a means to promote the common good, offering individuals the opportunity to contribute to society while honouring their talents and abilities.

The emphasis on mentorship and shared responsibility during National Apprenticeship Week resonates with our belief in nurturing the potential of each person for the greater benefit of the entire community.

This week becomes a celebration of vocational discernment and the pursuit of excellence in one’s chosen path, reflecting our belief and commitment to work as a means of realising human dignity and contributing to the common good.

For more information about National Apprenticeship Week, see the information below:

 

Table Tennis Competitions

5th February 2024Rhiannon Watts-Robinson

Last Wednesday (31st January) a select few of St Edmund’s pupils entered the Black Country Individual Championships for their respective age groups.

Many schools entered and the standard was of a high level. All of our boys competed really well with many of them qualifying for the knockout rounds.

A special mentions to Armin B, who came second in the under 16 competition, and Geno M, who came third in the under 13 competition.

Due to their success in winning the regional qualifiers, Daniel D, Michael O O, Ethan D and Armin B advanced to the West Area Finals for Schools Table Tennis which took place on Saturday 3rd February.

The boys competed against several different schools who also qualified through winning their local competition.

The standard was exceptionally high, nonetheless the boys competed marvelously and finished 4th at the end of the competition.

A massive well done to the team on their successes so far this year!

The team: Daniel D, Michael O O, Darragh S-W, Ethan D, Armin B, Hassaan S, Loveraj S S, Cayden R, Geno M, Rio-Ashton D, Enzo M, Ralph O’C, Daniel M and Adesola O

Sexual Abuse and Sexual Violence Awareness Week

5th February 2024Rhiannon Watts-Robinson

Sexual Abuse and Sexual Violence Awareness Week holds a deep significance as it aligns with the Church’s unwavering commitment to promoting human dignity, compassion and justice.

Recognising the profound impact of sexual abuse on individuals and communities, we acknowledge the urgency of addressing these issues with transparency, accountability and support for survivors.

This week serves as an opportunity of reflection, prayer and collective action within our community to raise awareness about the devastating consequences of sexual violence and to foster an environment where healing, prevention and restoration are prioritised.

Embracing the teachings of Christ, we are called to stand in solidarity with survivors, to advocate for justice and to contribute to a culture that ensures the safety and well-being of all individuals, promoting a society rooted in respect, love and the protection of the vulnerable.

He is the God who avenges me, who subdues nations under me, who saves me from my enemies. You exalted me above my foes; from a violent man you rescued me. – Psalm 18:47-48

Parent Partnership Meeting

1st February 2024Rhiannon Watts-Robinson

This week we held the first meeting of the Leading Parent Partnership working party.

A range of stakeholders, including students, staff, governors and parents, met to discuss how St Edmund’s can increase parental engagement.

A range of topics were covered, from home-school communication, to parent workshops and utilising parental skills in the academy.

A huge thank you to everyone who participated.

 

Saint Timothy and Saint Titus Feast Day

26th January 2024Rhiannon Watts-Robinson
The Feast Day of Saint Timothy and Titus holds a special place in the Catholic calendar, honouring two esteemed companions of the Apostle Paul and pillars of the early Christian Church.
This day offers a moment of reflection on the exemplary lives of these holy men. Saint Timothy, known for his youthful dedication and pastoral heart, and Saint Titus, a trusted collaborator of various missions, embody the virtues of faith and service.
Their contributions to the spread of the Gospel and the establishment of Christian communities serve as an enduring testaments to their unwavering commitment to Christ. We commemorate their Feast Day with gratitude, seeking inspiration from their lives to nurture our own faith, dedication to ministry and love for God’s people.
The legacy of Saint Timothy and Saint Titus continues to resonate as an encouragement for us to embrace our roles in the Church with fervor and compassion.
I am reminded of your sincere faith, which first lived in your grandmother Lois and in your mother Eunice and, I am persuaded, now lives in you also. – 2 Timothy 1:5
he saved us, not because of righteous things we had done, but because of his mercy. He saved us through the washing of rebirth and renewal by the Holy Spirit. – Titus 3:5

Octave of Christian Unity – Day 5

22nd January 2024Rhiannon Watts-Robinson

As we reach the fifth day of the Octave of Christian Unity, let our hearts be filled with a renewed commitment to the prayer of Jesus, that we may be one. Today, let us reflect on the interconnectedness of our faith and the shared purpose that binds us together. In the spirit of reconciliation, may we seek understanding, forgiveness, and common ground among the diverse members of the Body of Christ. May this day be marked by a deepening awareness of our shared journey and a willingness to embrace one another with love and compassion. As we stand united, may our collective witness shine as a beacon of Christ’s love, drawing others into the warmth of our unity and fellowship.

and asked. “Where is the one who has been born king of the Jews? We saw his star when it rose and have come to worship him.” – Matthew 2:2

Octave of Christian Unity – Day 3

20th January 2024Rhiannon Watts-Robinson

As we enter the third day of the Octave of Christian Unity, let our hearts be filled with a spirit of humility and reconciliation. Today, let us reflect on the words of Christ, who prayed that we may be one. In the light of this unity, may we set aside any prejudices or misunderstandings that hinder our journey together. Let the love of Christ guide our interactions, fostering a sense of harmony and respect among believers. May this day be marked by genuine efforts to build bridges, promote understanding, and celebrate the shared foundation of our faith. United in Christ, may we be beacons of hope, radiating the transformative power of unity to a world in need of His peace.

My command is this: Love each other as I have loved you. Greater love has no one than this: to lay down one’s life for one’s friends. – John 15:12-13

Octave of Christian Unity – Day 1

18th January 2024Rhiannon Watts-Robinson

On this first day of the Octave of Christian Unity, let us join our hearts in prayer, seeking the grace of unity that Jesus desires for His followers. As we reflect on the importance of coming together as one body in Christ, may we be inspired to set aside differences and embrace the common faith that binds us. Let this day be a sacred journey of renewal, a time to recommit ourselves to the call for unity, understanding, and love within the diverse tapestry of the Christian family. May our shared devotion during this octave deepen our connections and foster a spirit of harmony that resonates throughout the entire Body of Christ.

I have given them the glory that you gave me, that they may be as one as we are one – I in them and you in me – so that they may be brought to complete unity. Then the world will know that you sent me and have loved them even as you have loved me. – John 17:22-23

Chemistry Fun!

15th January 2024Rhiannon Watts-Robinson

Well done to our fantastic Top of the Bench team for representing St Edmund’s in the regional final of the Royal Society of Chemistry competition.

The event took place at University of Birmingham and involved challenging written quizzes and a practical investigation in the laboratory.

The standard was exceptionally high and we are so proud of our team – Gethsa Y11, Ajitha Y10, Oliver Y9 and Raymond Y9.

Only one team could make it through to the National Final. Although that wasn’t our team, they did really well and it was an amazing experience for the pupils.

Epiphany of the Lord

6th January 2024Rhiannon Watts-Robinson

The Epiphany of the Lord commemorates the manifestation of Jesus Christ to the Gentiles, symbolised by the visit of the Magi or Wise Men.

According to Catholic tradition, the Magi, guided by the Star of Bethlehem, traveled from the East to pay homage to the newborn King. This event is seen as a profound revelation of Jesus’ universal significance, emphasizing that salvation is not exclusive to a particular group or nationality.

The Epiphany signifies the revelation of God’s plan for all of humanity, and the homage offered by the Magi symbolises the acknowledgment of Christ’s divinity by people from different cultures.

It is a moment of realization and understanding that Jesus is the Savior for all, breaking down the barriers that may separate people and inviting them to share in the light of God’s love.

The Epiphany of the Lord underscores the inclusivity of God’s redemptive plan, inviting believers to recognize the presence of Christ in their lives and to radiate His light to the world.

See, darkness covers the earth and thick darkness is over the peoples, but the LORD rises upon you and his glory appears over you. Nations will come to your light, and kings to the brightness of your dawn. – Isaiah 60:2-3