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

MFL Bake Off 2023

21st December 2023Rhiannon Watts-Robinson

Yesterday our MFL department held another successful St Edmund’s Languages Bake Off.

The theme of this years bake off was “languages” or “Christmas around the world”.

The rules were: no nuts allowed, there must be a list of allergens and only one entry per student. The prize for first place was a £30 Uber Eats voucher.

The baked goods were sold to staff and students at breaktime. The judging was also held at this time.

All the money raised from the sale is going to  support families in our school community over Christmas.

Thank you to everyone who took part and made it a great event!

Year 9 Rewards Assembly

21st December 2023Rhiannon Watts-Robinson

On Wednesday 20th December, Mr Taylor hosted the Year 9 rewards assembly.

There were prizes galore as the fantastic pupils of Year 9 were recognised, and their efforts were rewarded.

Lots of pupils in this year group have done exceptionally well since October half term and their certificates, chocolates and vouchers were well deserved.

A huge well done to all pupils involved and the fantastic work that has been done by the Year 9 team.

Well done all!

GCHQ Christmas Challenge

18th December 2023Rhiannon Watts-Robinson

On Thursday, Loyola Academy students took part in the annual #GCHQChristmasChallenge.

Students were set the task of cracking seven fiendish puzzles and using the answers to help uncover a hidden festive message!

Students had to work together in teams and utilise their different strengths to solve the puzzles.

Congratulations to students in years 8, 9 and 11 who fully completed the challenge and solved the final code.

You can have a go at home too; the challenge is available for anyone to download on the GCHQ website now.

Second Week of Advent

12th December 2023Rhiannon Watts-Robinson

This week we lit the second candle on our advent wreath

In the Catholic liturgical calendar, the second week of Advent is a period of joyful anticipation and preparation for the celebration of the birth of Jesus Christ.

Each of the four weeks leading up to Christmas represents a different theme, and the second week is often associated with peace. We focus on the biblical messages of prophets like Isaiah, who foretold the coming of the Prince of Peace.

During this week, we engage in prayer, reflection, and acts of kindness to cultivate inner peace and share it with others. The lighting of the second Advent candle, often symbolising peace, serves as a visual reminder of the spiritual journey towards the arrival of the Savior.

As we embark on this season of Advent, we are encouraged to cultivate a sense of calmness and tranquility in our hearts, aligning our lives with the message of hope and peace brought by the Christ Child.

As it is written in the book of the words of Isaiah the prophet: “A voice of one calling in the wilderness, ‘Prepare the way for the Lord, make straight the paths for him. Every valley shall be filled in, every mountain and hill made low. The crooked roads shall become straight, the rough ways smooth. And all people will see God’s salvation.'” – Luke 3:4-6

Maths Talk with Dr Laura Rebollo-Neira

11th December 2023Rhiannon Watts-Robinson

What a wonderful experience our Year 11 pupil had on Friday with a lecture from Dr Laura Rebollo-Neira (Aston University).

The students got the opportunity to learn about the uses of mathematics, in particular how this shapes future technology innovations, as well as the wide range of degrees available to them at university.

Students were shown how mathematical proofs are built on assumptions and previously known facts. Research was shared with students about how maths is used to develop ideas (such as looking at how to move from MP3 to MP4 sound compression).

Dr Rebollo-Neira ended the presentation with details on job opportunities, labour market and wages in certain sectors connected to Mathematics, such as data analysts.

An aspirational, interactive and informative lesson delivered by a highly experienced doctor of mathematics.