Friday 10th May 2019

This Sunday is traditionally known as 'Good Shepherd Sunday.'  The Gospel reminds us that Jesus is the Good Shepherd and that, if we listen to him, we can rely on him to guide our lives in the right direction.  He is the patient shepherd who never gives up on us.  Jesus came so that we could experience the fullness of life here, and to lead us into the joys of eternal life. On the theme of the Good Shepherd, thank you for returning the collection boxes for Father Hudson's Good Shepherd Appeal. Each pound raised helps Father Hudson to continue their work reaching out and caring for people in need. An update on the total amount raised will be shared within the next fortnight.

It is with great sadness to inform you that Mrs Rowley, Miss Brissett and Mrs B Jenkins will all be leaving St. Joseph's at the end of this academic year.  Mrs Rowley and Mrs Jenkins will be retiring after many long years of service in education. Miss Brissett will be starting a new teaching post. We thank them all for their continued support and dedication to the children and families of our school.  We wish them every success as they begin a new chapter in their lives. Please keep them in your prayers.

Thank you to the small number of parents who have generously contributed to school funds either through a one off donation or have signed up to a monthly payment scheme.  Every penny will help support the school through very challenging financial times.  The government states that more money than ever is being invested into education, however, in real terms to schools this is not the case.  With an increasing expenditure and an income which does not reflect inflation, the school is having to make difficult decisions on which services are retained and removed whilst aiming to continue to improve standards. The PTA are always looking at ways to help support the school financially and I urge you to support the events planned for this term. Further details about these events will be released shortly. Thank you for your continued support.

A reminder that this year's School Games Day (Sports Day) will take place on Thursday 27th June.  The Reception and KS1 event will take place at 9.15am and then KS2 (Years 3 to 6) from approximately 11am.  Please note that there will not be a picnic during the afternoon and the children will have lunch at their usual allocated time. However, refreshments will be served during the morning through our kitchen staff.  The alternative day due to any inclement weather will be the morning Tuesday 9th July. 

This coming Monday our Year 6 pupils will sit their end of Key Stage Assessments.  These will take place from Monday until Thursday.  Please keep our Year 6 children in your prayers. 

Children in St. Joseph's School are growing to be curious about everything; and active in their engagement with the world, changing what they can do for the better.

Dear Lord Jesus, you are the Good Shepherd who knows us by name and guides us through life.  Please help us to follow you always.  Amen.

That the Church in Africa, through the commitment of its members, may be the seed of unity among her peoples and a sign of hope for this continent.