And so we have arrived at our final week of the term. A week that is filled with unapologetic sadness, vulnerability and isolation; but one too that is hopeful. This morning, our Year 2 children performed their interpretation of Palm Sunday. The joy and excitement that was evident as Jesus arrived into Jerusalem, soon dispersed as we were reminded of what is to come. In the hall we talked about each event of Holy Week and how many people were present at each stage; either the disciples, or the soldiers, or the crowds - yet Jesus was alone. We now turn to Year 3 next week who will share The Last Supper, followed by Year 4’s Gethsemane, Year 5’s Crucifixion, and finally Year 6’s portrayal of the hope of the Resurection. We hope that you will be able to join us for our journey to the cross.
It has been lovely to open the school to our parents and grandparents this afternoon, giving them the opportunity to view the Stations of the Cross that are placed in our hall. The chapel was also open, with the prayer station central, allowing them to reflect on their own lenten journey. I think some of them even joined our Year 2 class in there. Our chapel is central to our life in school. Over the next few months, we will be replacing the windows in there with designs that our current pupils have made.
Next week we will be collecting in the Lenten Boxes that have been with you at home during this period. I have no doubt that lots of acts of kindness have been completed all in the name of CAFOD. Please can the Lenten Boxes be brought in on Tuesday so that counting can take place before we finish for Easter.
Last night, our Year 4 class and other children from the parish, came to church to take their Sacrament of Reconciliation. It was a really lovely service in which Father Peter asked us all to examine our own consciences. This is what he asked us:
Do I try to speak to God every day by saying my prayers?
Could I try harder to talk to God during the day?
Am I always kind to my friends?
Do I always co-operate with them when we are together or do I cause arguments and fights?
Do I always do as I am told by my parents and teachers?
Do I respect what they say?
Do I realise that they love me and want to help and support me to be the best that I can be?
Do I always do what I know is right?
Am I aware that when I do something wrong it will affect someone else and they might be hurt?
As we come to the end of Lent, a time of giving, praying and acting, how can we all act in a kind way to ensure that the needs of others are considered?
Learning Role Models of the Week
Take a look at all of our learning and virtue winners this week. We are so proud of the love and compassion that you have all shown - not forgetting the fabulous learning. Our Year 2 children have be extra loving and compassionate as they have cared for 5 chicks that have hatched in class this week. Next week, the school community will be allowed to visit them, under the careful watch of Year 2. Year 4 could not choose their award winners this week as the whole class performed as part of the Royal Shakespeare Company. The whole class were represented by two of the cast for their certificates.
Nursery Consultation
I have really enjoyed the many conversations that I have had about the planned nursery conversion taking place and what a wonderful opportunity it is. Don’t forget that the consultation window is open if you have any questions at all.
Our Weekly Attendance
Office News
Thank you to everyone who has ensured that dinner money accounts have been settled before the term ends. As we are at the end of the financial year, we have many tasks to ensure are completed, dinner money is just one of them.
The dinner money for next half-term will remain at £2.50 - £85 for the full half-term.
Since February, Bamber and Harcourt have been tussling each week as the leaders of the house points earnt. The lead has often swung in either direction. The final points have been added up and the final standings are…
Plessington - 91
Marsden - 93
Bamber - 108
Harcourt - 108
Bamber and Harcourt can come in their house colours next Thursday.
We haven’t had much summer uniform in the sale on Monday. If you do have any uniform spare that no longer fits, please do send it in. We will make a decision on Monday whether we have enough to donate back out.
We finish for half-term at 2pm next Thursday, and return to school on Monday 8th April.
Have a lovely weekend with your families.
God bless
Mrs Gregan