Our staff have attended training let by Sr Judith Russi to discuss the significance of the upcoming Jubilee year. We also attended training centred around Prayer and Liturgy which was led by Greg Finn during our Inset days. These were opportunities for prayer and reflection and proved to be extremely powerful. 

"Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication along with thanksgiving, let your petitions be made known to God; and the peace of God that surpasses all understanding will guard your hearts and your mental powers by means of Christ Jesus". 

Philippians 4:6-7 

The whole school community celebrated our Welcome back to school Mass at our Parish Church, Our Lady of Lourdes. The readings reminded us Jesus calming the storm and that we will all may experience times of celebration and times of sadness during this academic year and that Jesus will be there to walk with us always. 

"I always remember that the LORD is with me. He is here, close by my side, so nothing can defeat me". 

Psalms 16:8 

We shared a wonderful day as a a whole school community, celebrating our feast day together. We started the day with an Inter- House quiz with all of our children taking part. The children then shared  in a whole school Mass with the Mini Vinnies leading this. We then concluded our celebrations with ice-creams. 

"Be cheerful with joyous celebration in every season of life. Let your joy overflow!" 

Philippians 4:4-7 

Today our Year 6 School Council Ambassador's met with children from our Deanery school's to discuss our Advent fundraiser topic and discuss it's significance. The children decided to focus on Disability Awareness Day on December 3rd in order to raise awareness of visible and invisible disabilities. 

"And the King will answer them, ‘Truly, I say to you, as you did it to one of the least of these my brothers, you did it to me."

Matthew 25:40  

Our Autumn term Building the Kingdom theme is Solidarity and each year group has been exploring this within our learning about World War I.  The children carried out different activities to show how we can show unity with each other and within our local community. 

"If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone". 

Romans 12:8 

Our Year 6 Catholic Life Ambassadors delivered the significance of the Harvest festival with the school, sharing that these donations would be donated to our local homeless centre, Emmaus House. They helped with organising these donations from each class. 

"Is it not to share your food with the hungry and to provide the poor wanderer with shelter" 

Isaiah 58:7 

For the first Sunday of each month, our children lead the children's Mass at OLOL. As part of this the children read the readings, prayers of the faithful, altar serve and sing a hymn after communion. This has been wonderful to share within our local Parish and community. 

" And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds, not giving up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging one another—and all the more as you see the Day approaching."

Hebrews 10:24-25 

Our Year 6 children visit our local Dementia centre as part of the Intergenerational Project. The children go down every fortnight and the choir visits at different points during the academic year. The children and the customers really enjoy sharing experiences and celebrations together. 

 "Remember the days of old; consider the generations long past. Ask your father and he will tell you, your elders, and they will explain to you".

Deuteronomy 32:7

The children have been taking part in weekly retreats with Fr. Mark in our school chapel, supported by our local parish. These retreats provide an opportunity for spiritual growth, as the children reflect on liturgical themes, listen to the Word of God, and engage in meaningful discussion to deepen their understanding of their faith.

"Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly, teaching and admonishing one another in all wisdom, singing psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, with thankfulness in your hearts to God."  

Colossians 3:16

Our Year 6 Catholic Life ambassadors and some of our Mini Vinnies attended Chaplaincy training with Sr Judith Russi at St Joseph's school. During the session the children mapped out their development plan and then created an overview of what it means to be a Chaplain which they shared with the school. 

"So Jesus answered them, “My teaching is not mine, but his who sent me. "

John 7:16

Our Catholic Life Ambassadors alongside other Year 6 Ambassadors shared why we will be collecting money for the Royal British Legion. Every lunchtime for a week prior to Remembrance day, the children sold the poppies to the whole school community. The children donated £735 to this very worthy cause. 

"And over all these virtues put on love, which binds them all together in perfect unity."

Colossians 3:14

The children led a Remembrance reflection during the week of Remembrance day. Each year group showed  real poignancy when reading poetry, singing songs and sharing about artwork which had been created based around remembrance. 

“Blessed are those who mourn, for they shall be comforted. "

Matthew 5:4 

To begin our season of Advent, Fr Patrick came in to bless our Advent wreath and lead our Mass to begin the season of preparing ourselves for the birth of our Lord. Our Catholic Life Ambassadors and our Mini Vinnies from Years 1-6 led the Mass- sharing all of the readings and prayers of the faithful, bringing up the offertory and lighting the first Advent candle on the wreath. 

“No one who lights a lamp hides it away or places it under a bushel basket, but on a lamp stand so that those who enter might see the light.” 

Luke 11:33 

During the season of Advent, the children participated in a forgiveness assembly for Years 1-3. Within the assembly, they reflected on the concept of forgiveness, exploring its meaning and significance. They linked this theme to the Parable of the Lost Sheep, understanding how forgiveness is central to God's love and mercy. This reflection helped the children grasp the importance of forgiving others and seeking reconciliation.

“As far as the east is from the west, so far has he removed our transgressions from us.” 

Psalm 103:12 

During the season of Advent the children met with all of our Priests from both Parishes, Our Lady of Lourdes and St Aidan's, to reflect on the Sacrament of Reconciliation. The children all met together to discuss the significance of this Sacrament, particularly during this time of preparation and were able to reflect on ways in which they can further enhance this season spiritually. 

 "Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you. "

Ephesians 4:32

Our Year 6 children went down to our Parish Church, Our Lady of Lourdes to help with making hampers for those in need in our local community. "It is important so that the community of Acton have food to eat and can have a joyous time over Christmas" Ethan 6D.

"And do not forget to do good and to share with others, for with such sacrifices God is pleased."

Hebrews 13:16

Our Nursery, Reception, Year 2 and Year 4 children all shared the story of the Nativity with us during the last week of term. They truly helped us to reflect on the story of the birth and Jesus and promoted joy during the season of Advent. 

"She gave birth to her firstborn, a son. She wrapped him in cloths and placed him in a manger, because there was no guest room available for them."

Luke 2:7

Each year group was given one of our Catholic Social teaching themes to represent in a bauble for our school Christmas tree. Through discussion of prior and current topics, the children decided how we at St Vincent's demonstrate and 'live out' these themes through our words and actions.  

"But Jesus said, “Let the little children come to me and do not hinder them, for to such belongs the kingdom of heaven.”

Matthew 19:14

We began our New Year by celebrating the visit of the Magi together as a whole school community. Fr Brendan asked our children what is the most important gift which we can give to Jesus and there were so many selfless reflections shared. We thought about how we can live out the giving of these gifts in our everyday lives. 

" When they saw the star, they rejoiced exceedingly with great gladness.  And when they came into the house, they saw the Child with His mother Miriam; and they fell down and worshiped Him. Then, opening their treasures, they presented to Him gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh." 

Matthew 2: 10-12

On Sunday 12th January, St Vincent's joined with the other schools within our Deanery to take part in a procession to celebrate the feast of the Epiphany in a vibrant way with the wider community. We shared carols in both English and Polish and there was a real sense of belonging as we processed to the Nativity scene. 

"After listening to the king, they went on their way. And behold, the star that they had seen when it rose went before them until it came to rest over the place where the child was."

Matthew 2:9

Each Friday, one year group will go down to Our Lady of Lourdes Church and help to lead the Mass. The children will read the first reading and Psalm and sing a hymn. This is central with regards to providing opportunities to further enhance spiritual experiences for the children and maintaining our links with the local Parish and community. 

"He called a little child to him, and placed the child among them. And he said: 'Truly I tell you, unless you change and become like little children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven."

Matthew 18:2-5 

During the month of January in preparation to mark the beginning of the Jubilee year, each year group focused on one of Pope Francis' six themes and we created our own school Jubilee door. This was blessed and opened by Fr Brendan at the end of January before he celebrated a Mass with the whole school community to begin this special Jubilee Year for Pilgrims of hope. 

"Not only so, but we also glory in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope."

Romans 5:3-4 

We lead phase group Oracy assemblies and use scripture as the basis of these. During this particular example the children considered the Wedding at Cana and the children worked in trio groups to discuss why Mary asked Jesus to help. The children then took part in a consensus circle. This allowed the older children to model their responses to the younger children and for them to build on these responses. 

“In the same way, the tongue is a small thing that makes grand speeches. But a tiny spark can set a great forest on fire.” 

James 3:5

We began our Lenten journey with an Ash Wednesday service. Fr Mark spoke about the three practices of Lent and discussed the significance of the ashes before they were distributed. The children spoke about the different things which they will be doing for the duration of Lent and how at times this may be tricky. 

 “And when you fast, do not look gloomy like the hypocrites, for they disfigure their faces that their fasting may be seen by others. Truly, I say to you, they have received their reward. But when you fast, anoint your head and wash your face, that your fasting may not be seen by others but by your Father who is in secret. And your Father who sees in secret will reward you. "

Matthew 6:16-18

Today we were visited by Fr. Mark. He spoke to us about Lent as a time for forgiveness, encouraging us to reflect on what we may need to be forgiven for. We remembered how Peter denied Jesus three times, yet, through repentance, he was forgiven and became a stronger person in God's eyes. As part of our reflection, we did an act of repentance to help clear our hearts and become closer to God. This reminds us that no matter our mistakes, God's love and forgiveness can help us grow and become better people, just like Peter. Lent offers us a chance to embrace forgiveness and transform ourselves through God's grace. 

“When Jesus saw their faith, he said, ‘Friend, your sins are forgiven.’” 

Luke 5: 20

Our Year 6 School Council representatives introduced our Lenten fundraiser to the school as part of our Gospel assembly. The children had researched two charities linking with our BTK theme for this term 'Options for the poor and vulnerable' and decided that all proceeds from our school talent show would be split between City Harvest, a local charity addressing food poverty and the Domino foundation a charity in South Africa who we have established links with. 

"Whoever is generous to the poor lends to the Lord, and he will repay him for his deed"

Proverbs 19:17

Our children in Years 4 to 6 took part in the Sacrament of Reconciliation during the season of Lent. The children met collectively initially to share some scripture together before taking time to consider what they are thankful for, what they are sorry for and what they ask for. 

“Then Peter came to Jesus and asked, ‘Lord, how many times shall I forgive my brother or sister who sins against me? Up to seven times?’ Jesus answered, ‘I tell you, not seven times, but seventy-seven times.'” 

Matthew 18: 21-22

We held a school Talent show where we celebrated all of our different skills and how unique we are, created in God's image and likeness. We raised over £1000 which will be split between the following charities: Acton Homeless Concern, City Harvest and the Domino Foundation. 

"But when you give to the needy, do not let your left hand know what your right hand is doing"

Matthew 6:3

Our Year 5 children shared an extremely reflective account of the story of Holy Week with both the children and parents within our community.  Their heartfelt performance helped us reflect on the true meaning of Easter, leaving us with a sense of gratitude and reverence.   

"For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life." 

John 3:16

Each year group examined different themes associated with the Stations of the Cross and considered the ways in which those who have been misplaced are called to make a journey similar to Jesus. They thought about the different emotions refugees may feel or experience and the children created artwork and composed prayers and reflections based on these. 

"For I was hungry and you gave me something to eat, I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink, I was a stranger and you invited me in, I needed clothes and you clothed me, I was sick and you looked after me, I was in prison and you came to visit me."

Matthew 25:36

On the first day back after the Easter break we felt it pertinent to share a whole school Mass celebrating Jesus' resurrection with good triumphing over evil. The Mini Vinnies and Chaplains led this Mass and it was extremely important that we included Prayers of the Faithful for the late Holy Father, Pope Francis. 

"Jesus said to her, 'I am the resurrection and the life. The one who believes in me will live, even though they die; and whoever lives by believing in me will never die. "

John 11:25-26

Our school community began the month of May, dedicated to Our Lady, with our school May procession. We sang Marian hymns together and discussed celebrations which occur around the world to honour Our Lady. The children reflected upon the significance of  the Queen of Heaven and after processing out into the playground, our youngest and eldest pupils crowned Our Lady and we all prayed a decade of the rosary together. 

"The angel went to her and said, “Greetings, you who are highly favored! The Lord is with you.” 

Luke 1:28

During both October and May we held weekly prayer sessions in our school Chapel, dedicated to praying the Rosary. These were open to both our own school community and to our wider Parish community and we had people attending from both groups. This was a really special time for reflection and correlated with the children praying the Rosary during these months also. 

“And when you pray, do not heap up empty phrases as the Gentiles do, for they think that they will be heard for their many words."

Matthew 6:7 

Our Racial Equality led a wonderful day for the school community to celebrate and share our culture and traditions with each other. We shared an assembly with songs and dancing from around the world and interviews with children sharing their favourite traditions. Children experienced story telling and music from around the world, with many of our parents coming in to lead sessions. 

The day culminated in a shared meal after school with parents. It was a wonderful way to share our heritage with each other and learn from each other. 

"Yet you, Lord, are our Father.

    We are the clay, you are the potter;

                                                         we are all the work of your hand. "

Isaiah 64:8

We celebrated Children's Mental health week with a range of different activities. Each class experienced a yoga session. In class there were a range of age -appropriate ways for the children to be able to spend time reflecting and discussing strategies to help when things become too overwhelming. We started the week with an assembly and this formed the basis of our Coaching session discussion with children sharing ways they can feel more relaxed and calm. 

"We are hard pressed on every side, but not crushed; perplexed, but not in despair; persecuted, but not abandoned; struck down, but not destroyed."

1 Corinthians 4:8,9

During our Year 5 and 6 residentials, the children begin their time away with a short liturgy. This allows the children and staff to join together and set the tone for the time away beginning with prayer and reflection. Whilst away with the Year 6 children at the Isle of Wight, we began the time away with the 'footprints in the sand' reflection. The children brought special items from home to keep in their cabin to remind them of God's love, including a wooden cross and a prayer card. 

"How priceless is your unfailing love, O God! People take refuge in the shadow of your wings."

Psalms 36:7

On the final day of term we all came together as a community to celebrate our end of year Mass at our Parish Church, OLOL with members of the wider community present. This was a final opportunity to send forth our Year 6 children with all of our prayers and blessings and wish everyone in our school community a wonderful summer break. 

"Guide me in your truth and teach me, for you are God my Saviour, and my hope is in you all day long."

Psalm 25:5