Dear Parents/Carers,

Welcome back! The St Joseph's team were so happy to return from half term to see the smiling faces of our wonderful children, who looked smart and proud in their school uniforms.  The first week back has had a smooth start and we have all enjoyed being back together again.

We have been utilising our outdoor learning spaces across the Federation this week, with numerous year groups visiting the forest school and getting hands-on with their learning.  Year 3 particularly enjoyed making teepees as part of their experience day, linked to English and Mr Teles utilised his gifts to demonstrate how to make them sturdy.

As a part of Catholic Social Teaching we must use our talents to support others. This week EYFS tecahers from St. Mary's Infants visited to see our leadership and Early Years provision and team. It was great explaining the steps we had taken to enusre of Nursery and Recption classes were innovative and developed all children. They were highly impressed by our offering for the children and said they were motivated and inspired. Thank you to Mrs Swain, Miss Hayter and Mrs Rizzi for sharing your expertise with them.

We've also had two trainee teachers join us this term. We are excited to support their growth and development.

We have been preparing for Lent, for many the most impoRtant part of the liturgical year.  Mrs Philips has organised a range of exciting activities spanning this significant period and we have to get all pur parish Preists involved in helping us to prepare. On Wednesday, Years 2 to 6 will be attending Ash Wednesday Mass at St Matthews. You are welcome to attend this service and worship with us.

Next week is also Book Week! Children can look forward to a visit from West End Schools, along with a range of fun, reading-based activities.  World Book Day is on Thursday 6th March, and children have been invited to come to school wearing their pyjamas or something cosy.  They can also bring in their favourite book to share with their classmates.

One of the special aspects of primary schools is how children learn to interact with and form healthy and positives relationships with others. These vital skills are developed within and beyond the classroom and are part of the hidden curriculum of a school. As children are learning, they may not always get it right, however we model and help children to resolve issues in a respectful way in lines with our core values of kindness, love and respect. If you have any concerns about your child, or their development please let us know. We care about all of the children deeply and feel blessed to be trusted to play such an instrumental role in their lives.

This week,  many of us shed tears as we gave Mrs Mulhern hugs when she come into see us. She has been of a member of staff that has supported the St Joseph's community for the last 27 years!  She has worked tirelessly to uplift and guide the children passing through the Federation for such a long time and I know that mine and so many other people's life are richer for having her in it. Unfortunately, Ms Mulhern has been unwell for some time and has made the decision to retire. Her her absence will be felt deeply. We will miss, her laugh, wit and stories about times gone bye.  We are currently planning an exciting goodbye assembly that will be scheduled for later on this term.  Parents are welcome to attend to say farewell to a St Joseph's legend who has captured our hearts. We hope that Mrs Mulhern enjoys some well earnt rest and relaxation time with her family and loved ones and keeps getting stronger and stronger.

We sent out a Pupil Consultation letter today, giving a month's notice to assist you in your planning. Thank you to all those who completed our parent survey! As a result of this we have added an additional day to increase the number of early time slots available to you all as per the demand.

We hope you have an amazing weekend and look forward to seeing you next week.

Mrs Ashley and the Team

We hope you and your family have a wonderful weekend.

The St. Joseph's Team