Dear Families,

As we approach the end of another busy and joyful term, I would like to take this opportunity to reflect on the many achievements of our wonderful school community and to thank you for your continued support.

A Term Full of Achievement and Joy

This term has been filled with so much to celebrate. Above all, we are proud of the happy, confident children who come into school each day ready to learn, grow and live out our Catholic values. Classrooms have been full of challenging and engaging learning, with children encouraged to think deeply, work collaboratively and take pride in their achievements.

Our reading breakfasts, shared with parents and carers, have been a highlight of the term. These mornings have strengthened our partnership with families and reinforced the importance of reading for pleasure and purpose.

We have been fortunate to be well supported by the Friends of St John’s who are always working away in the background to support the school and supplement wider opportunities for your child which we would otherwise not be able to afford. We have enjoyed cake sales, car boot sales, theatre workshops, the Christmas Fayre and this week the visit from the wonder dome. A huge thank you to everyone involved with the Friends but in particular to all those who make things happen – we are very grateful! If you think you have some time to join the group in 2026 please do speak with the representatives or a class teacher who will point you in the right direction – together we are stronger.

Our Catholic Life

The Catholic life of St John’s continues to flourish. We have gathered together for Masses and services including reconciliation throughout the term, strengthening our faith as a community. We were delighted to celebrate the children who received their First Holy Communion, a truly special and prayerful occasion for families and the parish. As always, we are very grateful for the ongoing support and guidance from Fr Richard and the wider parish.

The EYFS Nativity was a beautiful reminder of the true meaning of Christmas and brought great joy to all who attended. Our children continue to show generosity and compassion through their charity work, living out our mission to serve others. Our challenge from Sr Judith Russi is now to go deeper and higher in our thinking and actions.

Visits to Clifton Cathedral with the Chapel Champions have enriched children’s understanding of their faith and provided powerful moments of reflection and awe. We are delighted to be working in partnership with other Catholic Schools across the Diocese.

Mrs Graham, one of our wonderful Lunchtime and Extended Day supervisors will be leaving St. John’s Catholic Primary School at the end of this term. Mrs Graham has been working at the school for over ten years and dedicated her time, love and commitment to the children. We wish her all the very best in her next chapter and say a huge “thank you” for all her work over the years.

Enriching Experiences Beyond the Classroom

Learning at St John’s extends far beyond the classroom. Year 3 visited a local restaurant to reflect on different foods around the world whilst Year 5 thoroughly enjoyed their visit to the Art Sculpture Park in Salisbury, where creativity and curiosity were brought to life. These experiences help broaden horizons and deepen understanding across the curriculum.

We continue to have excellent links with Trowbridge library and Trowbridge museum where every year every child at St John’s visits the museum and library each academic year or the museum can sometimes even travel to their classroom!

Residential visits and educational trips remain a vital part of our wider offer, helping children to grow in independence, resilience and teamwork. We are extremely proud of our Year 6 children who engaged so well in their residential visit to Skern Lodge – they came back full of stories and successes! 

Our Dedicated Staff Team

None of these opportunities would be possible without our exceptional staff team. They consistently go above and beyond what their job descriptions ask of them, always seeking new ways to improve the curriculum and enrich the wider life of the school. Their dedication, professionalism and care for every child is something we are incredibly proud of.

Recognition and Success

This term, we have welcomed visits from Wiltshire Local Authority, educational experts supporting early reading, and, of course, our Section 48 inspection, where we were delighted to be judged Outstanding across all areas. This outcome reflects the strength of our Catholic ethos, the quality of teaching and learning, and the shared commitment of staff, pupils, parents and governors.

A Christmas Message for Families

As we prepare for Christmas, we are reminded of the importance of love, hope and family. In his Christmas message to parents, Pope Leo speaks of the vital role families play in nurturing faith, kindness and compassion in children. He encourages parents to take time for reflection and prayer during this season.

Some families may wish to explore Pope Leo’s reflections further by reading Dilexit Nos, which offers a thoughtful meditation on love, faith and our relationships with one another.

On behalf of everyone at St John’s Catholic Primary School, I would like to thank you for your continued support and partnership. We wish you a holy, peaceful and joyful Christmas, and we look forward to welcoming everyone back in the New Year.

May God bless you and your families.

Yours sincerely,

Mrs O’Rourke

Headteacher