This week in our school community: 13 March 2026

'Happy 80th Birthday!'

 

Last week, Fr Bill turned 80 and a few staff from St Gregory's attended his 80^th birthday celebration after Sunday Mass, which was co-ordinated by our Chair of Governors and his wife, John and Jane Eddison. Fr Bill was delighted with his cake, his present of a life size cut-out of Pope Leo XIV for the porch of the parish church and a delicious hamper full of his favourite goodies such as Green & Black’s chocolate, pork pie and rhubarb! He was also pleased to receive a big birthday card and chocolates from his St Gregory's family thanking him for his service to our school over many years - Happy Birthday Fr Bill!

Talking about pork pie, this week Year 11 have been cooking up a storm for their Food Preparation and Nutrition practical exams. The students have done so well cooking creative, mouth-watering dishes with such flair and panache. Many of the pies and breads would not be out of place being sold in high-end bakeries! All students must be commended for their excellent effort and achievement. Year 11 dancers have also impressed this week in their GCSE Dance practical exam. On Tuesday, the community was treated to a special pre-exam performance where students danced with such energy and emotion. On Thursday, a moderator came into school to help grade performances and was impressed with the quality of work on display - huge congratulations to all involved.

For evidence of true leadership in action, members of our 1719 Society led collective worship assemblies this week on the legacy of Pope Francis. As we approach the one-year anniversary of Pope Francis' death, Mr Burn and the 1719 Society reminded us why Pope Francis left such an indelible mark on the world - his care for the poor, the marginalised, the planet and for peace are all part of our call as a Catholic community to  take action and have hope. In a broken world where conflict and terror fill our news stories, we must cling on to hope and know that Pope Francis' legacy lives on in our young people who this year have been called to action to become glowing saints.

Please keep all students in your thoughts and prayers who are undertaking exams and assessments, who are interviewing for New Sixth Scholarships next week and who are making important decisions about their next steps.

O God, immortal shepherd of souls,

look on your people’s prayers

and grant that your servant, Pope Francis,

who presided over your Church in charity,

may, with the flock entrusted to his care,

receive from your mercy

the reward of a faithful steward.

Through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son,

who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit,

God, for ever and ever.

Amen

Live Jesus in our hearts forever.

Mrs Melissa George (BA Hons, MA, PGCE) 

Headteacher