So, we have reached the end of another years. The last day bombards with a confusing mix emotions – joy at the thought of summer holidays, pride for the children moving ever upwards, sadness at those leaving and the odd regret for things that we never quite managed to achieve.
We waved a collective good bye to Year 6 who treated us to a fantastic version of Matilda. It was all their own work and they really took ownership. Then we blessed them with our Leavers Mass, where Fr Vimal reminded them of the values they carried in their backpack and we advised them to build bridges. In the final assembly they chose to sing ‘Wonderwall’ to the school.
There were also emotional departures for several pupils lower down the school, who have gained access to the specialist provision they need to help them reach their full potential. Though they are no longer here, they will never be forgotten and we will always consider them our children. We wish them and their families every success.
We celebrated a number of fantastic winners during our final week. This included wonderful musicians with our Lindsay Norris Award, superb role models in Reception class, with our Andrew Dovey Trophy and a child who embodies St Joseph’s mission statement, to ‘Grow in Love’ who won our Governor Award. Congratulations to all those children and thank you to Mr Mulholland (Chair of Governors) for presenting.
Finally, we held St Joseph’s Got Talent, where we watched five brilliant acts perform their skills in front of the whole school. This was a real treat and we look forward to making it an annual event – get practising. Thank you to Mr Smith for his judging skills and his words of encouragement to all children. This was followed by a joyous PTA Disco, in the sunshine. Massive thanks to the PTA throughout the year and especially James Brownsell for his energy, enthusiasm and his glittery jacket.
It only remains for me to thank all parents, carers and families for your support throughout the year, your generous gifts and getting your children to school each day. Our attendance is greatly improved because of your efforts. After a rest, we will all be back in September when we will try to make St Joseph’s an even better school.
