St. Mary's Catholic Primary Schools Trust

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Headteacher's Newsletter 

Friday 24th April 2026

Dear Parents and Carers,

 

It has been another full and joyful week in school with plenty to celebrate and reflect on.

Our ducklings have been a real highlight. The children have been completely captivated watching them grow so quickly in such a short space of time. There is something quite special about seeing new life up close and it has sparked curiosity, care and a real sense of responsibility among the children. Although we were sad to see them return to their home, we are grateful for the experience and the lasting memories they have given us.

We were also fortunate to welcome PC Tia into school, who delivered a lively and informative assembly. She spoke to the children about staying safe online and what they can do to help in an emergency situation at home. The children were highly engaged and a few even had the chance to try on parts of her uniform, which (as you can imagine) was a definite highlight.

As part of our Earth Day celebrations, the children took part in planting new plants around the school. This is more than just a one-off activity; it is part of our ongoing commitment to caring for God’s creation. We look forward to seeing these plants flourish and hopefully, attract new wildlife into our school environment.

We also marked St George’s Day by learning about the life of St George and celebrating by wearing red and white. It was wonderful to see the children taking pride in this important part of our national story.

This week’s Gospel, John 10:1–10, reminds us that Jesus is the gatekeeper who guides and protects us. Just as the shepherd knows and cares for each of his sheep, we are reminded that we are known, valued and called to follow the right path. It is a message that links beautifully with the experiences of this week: caring for living things, making wise choices and looking after one another.

Thank you, as always, for your continued support.

 

Dates for your Diary:

WB 27th April 2026 – Year 6 PGL Week

Tuesday 28th April 2026 – Hero Day – Come to school dressed as your Hero

 

Happy Bag Collection on Monday 18 May

If you are having a spring clean or sorting through your wardrobes, we are holding a Happy Bag Collection on Monday 18 May.

We welcome donations of unwanted clothing, shoes, sheets, duvets and covers and jewellery. Items can be brought into school at any time from now until the collection date.

The more donations we receive, the more funds the school will raise, helping us to purchase new resources for our children. At the same time, all donated items go on to support people in need across the world.

This collection reflects our commitment to Catholic Social Teaching, encouraging us to think of others, act generously and support those less fortunate than ourselves, while also benefiting our own school community.

Thank you, as always, for your continued generosity and support.

 

Join us for a Hymn Practise

We are delighted to invite parents/carers to join us for a joyful Hymn Practice session: a chance to re-live some classic hymns, celebrate in music and share a special moment with our children.

There’s something quite powerful about a hall full of voices raised together (and yes, even if you think you can’t sing – you absolutely can!).

Tuesday 12th May at 3:00pm – for parents of Year 3 and Year 4 (please note change of time)

Tuesday 19th May at 9:15am – for parents of Year 5 and Year 6

To help us organise the space, please complete the Google Form to let us know if you’ll be attending. Each family may book up to 2 places per child.

We promise a warm welcome, uplifting music, and possibly a few forgotten hymn lyrics coming back to you faster than expected.

We very much hope you can join us – the children will love having you there.

 

Lost Property

We currently have a significant amount of lost property in school, much of it unnamed. This makes it almost impossible to return items to the right children, even when staff make a concerted effort to do so. Please ensure that all clothing and any items brought into school are clearly labelled with your child’s name. It saves time, reduces waste and, frankly, avoids children going home minus a jumper they definitely arrived in.

All lost property will be disposed of at half term if it is not claimed. Parents are very welcome to come in and look through the lost property area if your child is missing anything.

A small job at home will prevent a much bigger pile here. Thank you for your support with this.

 

Parking outside of a school

A firm but necessary reminder regarding parking.

The exit to the school is currently unsafe for children, parents, staff and members of the public due to vehicles being parked inappropriately outside the school. Parking on corners, across driveways, on zig-zag lines or too close to the entrance significantly reduces visibility and puts everyone at risk.

Please park considerately and legally, even if it means walking a short distance. No one arrives at school expecting a near miss, yet that is exactly the situation we are creating when cars are left in unsafe positions.

We all share responsibility for keeping our community safe. Your cooperation with this is not optional — it is essential.

 

Achievement Certificates

The achievement certificates this week are awarded to:

  • Naomi in 3A
  • Zander in 3E
  • Olivia in 4D
  • Austin in 4T
  • Nicole in 5B
  • Mojo in 5C
  • Joaquin in 6G
  • Olivia in 6P

 

The Headteacher’s award goes to Favour is 4D

The Kindness Award goes to Ruari in 4T

The Swimming Award goes to Kaja in 6G

  

Yours faithfully,

 

Sarah Fizul

Headteacher

 

 

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