Over the past two weeks, we have been on a mission to recruit more and more people on our journey to the stable. We have challenged each and every person who has come through the school door to be present in the moment and to enjoy the season that is before us. The nature of Christmas often means that we are consumed by preparation. Preparation for the big day in terms of presents and food; instead we need to be consumed by the preparation of Jesus’s arrival and in turn prepare our hearts.
We have continued to meet the different members of the Holy Family; this week, it was Jesus. Today we learnt that Jesus comes from the Greek name Joshua, which means the Lord saves. Really, Jesus’s name is in his job description - to save God’s people. This tiny baby, so full of love. with a message for us all! Next week, we will be exploring the word light and how Jesus is a light for us all.
Sharing in the Nativity
From the beauty of the Foundation Nativity to the poignant message that our Key Stage 1 children shared this week; I could not be prouder of them all. Together, our Year 1 and 2 children put on the most wonderful nativity, full of song and important messages - it really was a West End Spectacular. They shared in the doubt, fear and panic that Mary and Joseph must have felt, not to mention Ferrari the donkey. But despite all of those emotions, the young family knew that ultimately it was God’s will and they had to continue - no matter what. We too must listen to God’s call and His plan for us.
Thank you to each and every grown up who came and supported the children and came and watched the nativity. This was about the children; it is always about the children, and even though, my requests to just smile and enjoy the performance seated amongst many, please bring yourself and not a drink may seem a little strange or trivial at times; it is for the good of the children and to enable them to feel confident and safe. No child is the same and for them to produce what they have done this week, they needed our support. By us being a wonderful audience, and minimising distractions, they have given us the most precious gift that could have been given. Every child took part which is just what it is about. Quite often I have to take a step back and put things into perspective. If the children are comfortable and happy, then everything else is insignificant.
Next week, our journey to the stable moves to church where our Key Stage 2 children will be retelling the story through scripture and song. There are two performances: 2pm and 6pm. We hope that you will be able to join us.
Another pupil who has really shone this week is Angel. As parents and friends entered the hall for the nativity this week, Angel has been placed at the piano welcoming all in. We have always wanted a pianist in school and now we have one. We are so proud of him and his courage, playing in front of so many.
The final week in school…
The last four days in school are jam-packed. Please make sure you know what is happening and when:
Monday: KS2 Christmas Carol Concert - 2pm and 6pm. We need some adults to walk down with our youngest children at 1.30pm. Please come to school if you are able to do so. In the evening, the children will need to be at church in full school uniform (not PE kit) at 5.45pm. Please wait patiently outside when you arrive.
Tuesday: KS2 Christmas Party - the children can wear their own clothes. They are also allowed to bring in a drink (nothing fizzy or Prime related) and either a chocolate bar or a packet of crisps.
Wednesday: F and KS1 Christmas Party - the children can wear their own clothes. They are also allowed to bring in a drink (nothing fizzy or Prime related) and either a chocolate bar or a packet of crisps.
Wednesday: Christmas Dinner. Thank you to all of those who have ordered.
Thursday: School will close at 2pm. Please collect your children promptly.
Leading Learners this week
Leading Learners
Butterfly Virtues
Office News
Weekly Attendance
With one week to go to the end of term the office is busy trying to tie up everything for the new year. Thank you for your orders for the digital film copy of the nativities ~ your codes will be sent to you next week as soon as we receive them.
There are still a number of school dinner accounts that need settling on ParentPay as soon as possible please. Dinners for next half term are still £2.50 in line with Lancashire County Council and therefore will be £62.50 for the five week half term. We do encourage you to please pay dinner money in advance. Thank you for your support with this.
If you have a child starting Reception next September please do not forget to submit your application on the Lancashire County website before 15th January 2024. If you are applying to our school please hand in our supplementary form and a copy of your child’s baptism certificate to Mrs Nel in the school office as soon as possible.
The holiday pattern for the next academic year has now been agreed by the governors. I have attached it below for you and put it on the dates section of the website.
After a number of years at Our Ladys, Mrs Connolly will be leaving us this Christmas to take up another position, in another school, closer to home. Mrs Connelly has worked tirelessly over the years to support lots of children as they have journeyed through school. We will miss her dearly, and the joy that she has brought. Mrs Connolly, on behalf of the school community, thank you for what you have given to the children and of yourself.
Have a wonderful weekend
God bless
Mrs Gregan