This term, we're placing a special focus on handwriting across the school. Good handwriting is an essential skill that supports children's learning and helps them express their ideas clearly and confidently. Our teachers will be working with pupils to develop their letter formation, consistency, and presentation skills. We'll be encouraging pupils to take pride in their written work and to develop the fine motor skills needed for fluent, legible handwriting. Please support your child at home by encouraging them to take their time with their writing and to practise regularly.

We're currently reviewing our homework approach to ensure better consistency across all year groups. Our aim is to make sure that homework is meaningful, manageable, and supports what children are learning in class. We want to ensure that all pupils and families have a clear understanding of expectations and that homework enhances learning without creating unnecessary pressure. We'll be consulting with staff and will share our updated homework policy with you once the review is complete. Your feedback is always valuable, so please do share any thoughts you may have.

We had our first SLT day this week and attending the BETT education show. This is one of the leading education technology events, showcasing innovative ideas and cutting-edge technology that can enhance teaching and learning. I was inspired by the range of digital tools and resources available that could support our pupils' learning and help our teachers deliver even more engaging lessons. I'm excited to explore how we might incorporate some of these innovations into our practice at St Joseph's, always keeping in mind what will genuinely benefit our children's education and development.

I'm thrilled to announce that I've secured funding for our Year 5 pupils to take part in Shakespeare Workshops this term, supported by the Delight Charity. This is a wonderful opportunity for our children to engage with Shakespeare's work in a creative and accessible way. The workshop will begin on 3rd February, where children will watch a live performance. We have invited children from Good Shepheard to join us too. Our teachers will receive specialist training from the Globe Theatre, ensuring they have the expertise to deliver high-quality Shakespeare education.

Additionally, specialist creative teachers will work directly with our Year 5 pupils, bringing the plays to life through drama, performance, and exploration. This enriching experience will develop our pupils' confidence, creativity, and understanding of one of the greatest writers in the English language. I'm incredibly grateful to the Delight Charity for making this possible.

As a Catholic school community, we hold each other in prayer, especially those who are unwell. At this time, I ask that you join me in praying for all those in our school community who are sick – whether pupils, staff members, or family members. May they find comfort, healing, and strength during their time of illness. Let us remember that we are all part of God's family, and we support one another through prayer and compassion.

We hope you and your family have a good weekend,

Mrs Ashley and the Team

"How good and pleasant it is when God's people live together in unity!" - Psalm 133:1

Wellbeing

We began this week with an interesting and inspirational online assembly to celebrate the beginning of Children's Mental Health Week. The theme for this week has been 'This is my place' which has explored the importance of belonging and places where we feel safe. It also made us think about ways that we can e kind to others and ourselves

If you or your child are struggling with mental health and wellbeing issues, Young Minds is another fantastic charity that has lots of useful help and advice - https://www.youngminds.org.uk/parent/ On this website, whether you want to understand more about your young person's mental health, find the right help for them or hear from other parents who've been there, their guides can help.

Early Years

This week nursery made bird cake, we mixed seeds, bread and crackers then we used lard to help bind it together. We put it on the bird table and waited for the birds to come to eat it! Hope the birds enjoyed their cake! Wishing you all a very happy half term.

Key Stage 1

Year 2 Carbon Monoxide Safety Workshop

Year 2 enjoyed an exciting carbon monoxide safety workshop today. A special visitor taught the class about the dangers of carbon monoxide, how to stay safe, and where it can be found at home, such as in ovens, barbecues, and fireplaces. Pupils had fun creating freeze frames of different objects for classmates to guess and learned the importance of having working carbon monoxide alarms. Everyone left with a goodie bag and plenty of new safety knowledge to share at home.

Lower Key Stage 2

Year 3 have had a very busy week. As well as all of their usual lessons and activities the children enjoyed gymnastics where they created a partner routine containing several balances and took part in the Spaceship Earth Primary Show where they watched videos of earth from space, learnt about space debris and took part in live voting panels about all things related to space!

Upper Key Stage 2

To mark Children’s Mental Health Week, 6P took part in a creative painting session focused on self-expression and wellbeing. The children designed and painted their own colourful ice lollies, each one representing their unique personalities and emotions. It was a wonderful opportunity to relax, reflect and celebrate the importance of looking after our mental health in a fun and imaginative way.

PE

Our girls’ netball club is up and running on Fridays and the girls are absolutely loving taking part each week. The sessions have been full of energy and enjoyment, with smiles all round.

Student Leadership Team

JUNIORS

This week has been incredible. Year 6 have been drawing lollipops; Year 5 have been rehearsing their performance, Macbeth and Year 4 have been to the Science Museum. Year 3 are currently pracistin their Easter Production.

INFANTS

The infants have really enjoyed themselves this week. Nursery have been making hearts for valentines. Reception have been practicing a dance called the fishy nibbles dance. Year 1 have been creating acrostic poems about their names and Year 2 have been doing different shapes and textures during their time in art.

REPRESENTING

The school has been represented in many ways. The school football team has been playing some incredible football recently and Year 5 representing the school by performing for the mayor of Croydon and the ambassador of Portugal.

Ella (Head-girl)

Foma (Deputy Head - boy)

RE

We had a lovely Epiphany liturgy to start our term and are now looking forwards and making plans for the season of Lent. Ash Wednesday is on the 18th February this year, which is during the half term holidays, and we will begin a variety of activities when the children return to school. We will send out further information nearer the time but this will include mass on 19th March (which is St Joseph's Day) and the annual Y3 Easter production. During this period we hope to raise money to support CAFOD and the Catholic Children's Society.

Happy Birthday!

Everyone at St. Joseph's wishes you the happiest of birthdays

Year 4: Mariana and Sofia

Year 6: Daniel

Key Dates

06.01.26

School reopens for Spring Term 8.50am

06.01.26

Holy Feast Day of the Epiphany

3rd-5th February Parents Evening

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