Half Term Highlights: A Celebration of Learning, Kindness & Community

What an absolute joy this half term has been! It may be the longest blog I’ve written yet, simply because so many exciting learning experiences have taken place. From Viking fashion shows to singing in Spanish at Mass, our curriculum has truly burst with activity, engagement, and love for one another.

Faith & Reflection

We began the half term by participating in The Season of Creation, focusing on “Peace with Creation.” This annual celebration runs from 1st September to 4th October, ending on the Feast of St. Francis. Children also attended the Centenary Mass at Ladyewell, joining other schools to mark 100 years of the Lancaster Diocese.

We took part in Little Way Week, where small acts of kindness were noticed and celebrated around school. This initiative beautifully complemented the NSPCC Kindness Challenge, with prefects spotting children for their thoughtful actions and awarding Big Heart Awards.

Celebrating Inclusion & Leadership

Our Braille Week was a standout moment, featuring a special assembly led by Henry and Bethany’s mum. It was informative, inclusive, and deeply appreciated by all.

Children continued their Diana Award Anti-Bullying Ambassador training, working alongside other primary schools and attending a well-being workshop at Corpus Christi High School.

Sporting Success

We’ve had a brilliant half term in sports! Our teams placed 2nd and 3rd at Whitechapel in the Preston cluster events with St. Mary’s. Our footballers were absolutely awesome — we’re now through to the Lancashire Finals Competition! Huge congratulations to all involved for your skill and excellent conduct.

Creative Curriculum Moments

  • Space Week: The theme was Living in Space, and every class presented their work in a whole-school assembly.
  • Author Visit: Shaun Perkins visited us, reading his books and leading engaging workshops in class.
  • Viking Day: Beacon Class designed and made Viking tunic waistcoats in DT, culminating in a spectacular fashion show catwalk for the whole school!

Reception & Family Celebrations

Our Reception children have settled in beautifully. It’s been a joy to visit classrooms and see how hard everyone is working.

We held a New Starter Welcome Family Mass, with Year 5 buddies supporting their Reception Class friends. Thank you to everyone who attended — your presence made it truly special.

Last Sunday’s Joint Family Mass at Claughton was another highlight. The children read beautifully and sang a Spanish hymn that brought joy to all. The Papal Nuncio and his team were delighted, and it was wonderful to see the church full.

Clubs & Pupil Voice

There’s been a buzz of activity around school with pupil-led clubs including:

  • Tennis
  • Art
  • Comic Writing
  • Bible Buddies
  • Dance
  • Cheer
  • Coding

Our School Council has been hard at work! I’ve given them a generous budget to develop the playground, and their meeting agendas have been excellent. I look forward to collaborating with them on many exciting projects this year.

Charity & Community Support

Our CAFOD Club is collecting for the homeless. Please donate sleeping bags, gloves, scarves, or hats to support Street Pastors helping Preston’s homeless this winter.

We’re also collecting for Ribble Valley Food Bank. Any donations are gratefully received — thank you for your continued kindness.

Wishing You a Wonderful Break

As we come to the end of this half term, we wish you a restful and joyful break. Please remember: children return to school on Tuesday 4th November.