This week in our school community: 8 May 2026
...the world doesn't need what women have; it needs what women are...
St Edith Stein remains one of the most inspirational figures from the 20th century and we heard all about her life in tutor-led collective worship assemblies this week. She was a pioneer for women all around the world believing that "the world doesn't need what women have; it needs what women are." Despite converting to Catholicism, Edith Stein was put to death by the Nazis due to her Jewish heritage. She is remembered for her profound faith, her intellectual contributions and for being a beacon of hope. Students in Stein House at St Gregory's aspire to live lives of faith and place value on equality and education.
On a connected note, three Year 12 student leaders delivered an inspiring and interactive session for a group of Year 9 History students on Thursday to keep the horrors of the Holocaust alive in our collective understanding. Gabriel, Olivia and Alicja spoke eloquently about their experiences and the stories that had impacted them from the Lessons for Auschwitsz project. They talked first hand about what they had seen and learnt from travelling to Auschwitz recently and must be commended for being incredible ambassadors of our school community.
Year 9 students sailed through the treetops in the Forest of Dean and had fun participating in team-building games and activities at Go Ape. Thank you to Mrs Lawson and the PE department for organising this enriching opportunity for students to step out of their comfort zones and enjoy physical activity in such a beautiful outdoor setting. Stars of the trip were Allegra C, Erin D, Joel C, Noah N, Nathan P, Jacob C, Caspar S and Marley G.
Mrs Kestell took Year 12 students to a Chemistry workshop at the University of Bath this week to see chemistry in action, while Mrs Richards organised for GCSE and A level dramatists to see a performance of the classic Enid Blyton story, Malory Towers, at the Theatre Royal, Bath.
We have celebrated with our Year 11 and Year 13 cohorts this week for their thanksgiving activities. Memories have been shared, tears have been shed, lots of photos have been taken and shirts have been signed. We wish them well and keep them in our prayers as they now head into their public examination period.
To end today's newsletter, here is the prayer we say for our House Saint, St Edith Stein:
O my God, fill my soul with Holy joy, courage and strength to serve You.
Enkindle Your love in me and then walk with me along the next stretch of road before me.
I do not see very far ahead, but when I have arrived where the horizon now closes down,
a new prospect will open before me and I shall meet with peace.
Amen
