Friday 23^rd October 2026

Dear Parents and Carers,

As we come to the end of our first half term, I would like to take this opportunity to thank you all for your continued support, encouragement and partnership. It has been a wonderful start to the academic year and we simply could not have achieved so much without you. Your involvement in our school community makes such a difference and I am incredibly grateful for the part you play in making St Mary's such a special place.

We have enjoyed another brilliant week of learning, growing and celebrating the many talents of our children. Year 3 led a beautiful class liturgy, providing a lovely opportunity for prayer and reflection. We were also delighted that Mrs Chappell accompanied a group of our budding artists on an art trip, which was thoroughly enjoyed by all the children involved. Experiences such as these remind us that learning extends far beyond the classroom and that every child has unique gifts and talents to share.

This coming Sunday's Gospel (Matthew 22:34–40) reminds us of Jesus' greatest commandments: "You must love the Lord your God and your neighbour as yourself." These words capture the very heart of our Catholic school community. Throughout this half term, we have seen countless examples of our children living out our Gospel values of Love, Faith, Peace and Respect. Whether through acts of kindness, supporting one another or showing compassion and understanding, our children continue to demonstrate what it means to put God's love into action. It is this spirit of love and togetherness that makes our school community so special.

It has been a lovely, busy and rewarding half term and I am immensely proud of everything our children and staff have achieved. I am certain that the next half term will be just as busy, but even more productive, with plenty of exciting opportunities ahead!

Finally, I would like to thank our dedicated staff for their hard work and commitment throughout these past weeks. I hope that all our families and staff enjoy a well-deserved half-term break, with time to rest, recharge and enjoy precious moments with loved ones.

I look forward to welcoming everyone back, refreshed and ready for another wonderful half term together.

Dates for your diary

• 02/11/2026 – Return to School
• 05/11/2026 - 3E Class Liturgy
• 11/11/2026 – Individual Photos
• 12/11/2026 - 3A Class Liturgy
• 19/11/2026 - 6G Class Liturgy
• 26/11/2026 - 6P Class Liturgy
• 03/12/2026 -5B Class Liturgy
• 10/12/2026 -5C Class Liturgy
• 16/12/2026 - CAROLS by CANDLELIGHT @3pm (Yr3/4)
• 17/12/2026 - CAROLS by CANDLELIGHT @3pm (Yr5/6)
• 18/12/2026 – Last Day of Term

Disco dates TBC

Achievement Awards

The achievement certificates this week are awarded to:

• Bernadette in 3A
• Michele in 3E
• Callum 4D
• Emmanuella in 4T
• Oluchi in 5B
• Fillipo in 5C
• Keziah in 6G
• Aaron in 6P

The Headteacher’s award goes to Naeva in 6G

The Kindness Award goes to Mara in 4D

Yours faithfully,

Miss SK Fizul

Headteacher