Dear Families and Friends of St John’s,

This has been a hugely successful Term 2, I want to extend my heartfelt thanks to every member of our school community. Your support, encouragement and partnership have been deeply appreciated, and they continue to make St John’s the vibrant, faith-filled community we are so proud to be.

This term has been marked by many successes across the school. Most notably, we welcomed our Section 48 inspection team last week. I am incredibly grateful to everyone—staff, pupils governors and families—for the warmth, honesty and openness shown throughout the process. The inspectors spoke highly of the ethos and spirit within our school, and we look forward to sharing the full report with you as soon as it is released in the coming days.

I would also like to thank the large group of parents who took the time to complete the questionnaire. Your responses were overwhelmingly positive about the quality of Catholic education at St John’s, and your affirming comments mean a great deal to us. They strengthen our resolve to continue placing Christ at the centre of all we do.

Across the school, the children have worked with enthusiasm, creativity and determination. I am especially proud of our Year 6 pupils, who represented St John’s so brilliantly on their residential visit to Skern Lodge. Their maturity, teamwork and joyful spirit were noted by everyone who worked with them, and they were exemplary ambassadors for our school. It was also noted by the instructors that the children’s den building was very impressive – thank you OPAL!

This Friday our whole staff team will be taking part in a dedicated yearly RE Training and Development Day with Sr Judith Russi. This will be a valuable opportunity to reflect together on our mission and to deepen our understanding of how we continue to shape and strengthen Catholic education for every child entrusted to our care. Please note school is closed all day this Friday.

As we approach the sacred season of Advent—our time of waiting, hope and joyful expectation—I would like to end with a prayer:

Advent Prayer

Loving God,

As we enter this season of light and promise,

Open our hearts to welcome Your presence anew.

Guide our preparations, calm our busy minds,

And help us to recognise You in one another.

May our school community grow in faith, hope and love,

And may the peace of Christ fill our homes this Advent.

Amen.

Wishing you and your families a peaceful and hope-filled Advent season.

With every blessing,

Mrs O’Rourke