This week in our school community: 1 May 2026
There were so many moments and shared experiences that we hope will stay with them…
Young Volunteer Programme ‘Called to Action’
Last week we had our final day of input in this year’s Year 10 Young Volunteer Programme. We were introduced to the work of Pax Christi this time around, exploring firstly the idea of peace of ourselves and our own wellbeing. Aisling, who led us with expertise and knowledge, then got our students to explore the bigger picture of peace in our communities and world through a variety of activities and reflection. Thank you to St Bede’s in Bristol who hosted this final session, and to all the students from St Bede’s, St Bernadette’s, St Augustine’s and our own school for offering their time and commitment to spread awareness and fundraise for important causes.
Year 9 Kintbury Retreat
As the sun blasted away the memories of a wet and cold winter and finally showed great promise for summer, a group of students joined Mrs West and I for the perfect location to enjoy the weather. We endured the unreliability of replacements bus services on the rail network and last minute cancellations from other schools due to attend, but nothing could dampen our spirits as we enjoyed the beautiful Berkshire countryside. The third day of our retreat involves an Emmaus walk, the opportunity to explore our surroundings whilst conversing with those we know well and those who we can learn much more about. We were blessed to see fields of horses, Shetland ponies, red kites, pheasants and even muntjac dear.
Throughout the retreat our Year 9s explored the themes of welcome, awareness, reconciliation and good news through lots of group work, discussion, outdoor activities, presentations and reflection. There were so many moments and shared experiences that we hope will stay with them, with reminders of their worth and value in their affirmation booklets. Losing a fashion show and quiz to staff on one of the evenings may not be the moment they remember fondly! Thank you to all parents, carers and families for giving them the opportunity to go on retreat and experience something that is only truly tangible when experienced in person.
Mr Robinson
Lay Chaplain
