Newsletter 14th October 2016
Dear Parents and Carers
We have had ‘our heads down’ and have been working very hard over the last few weeks to ensure we are getting the best out of every single minute of every single day. As you know, national expectations have been raised and we need to ‘close gaps’ in all children’s understanding. This is a three way process with responsibility being at home, in school and also with the children. Please make sure that you are listening to your child read every night and making sure homework is completed and handed in on time. Research shows that children who are supported at home do better at school. Next Monday 17th October and Tuesday 18th October there are Parents’ Evenings. Please make sure you come and ask your child’s teacher how you can best support them. If you cannot attend, ask the teacher for another meeting to be scheduled.
MacMillan Coffee Morning
We had a wonderful MacMillan Coffee morning and we raised lots of money for a wonderful cause. Thanks to all of you for attending and being so generous in your donations to such a worthy cause. We raised a staggering £633 which is a testament to both your generosity and love of cake! 
International Day
Next Friday 21st October is International Day. The children and staff will dress in national costume or the colours of their national flag. There will be activities on this day for the children to take part in and enjoy. Black History Month has been celebrated by a variety of events over the month from story-telling, theatre, tie-dye. Thank you to the parents who have volunteered to share their cultural stories and experiences.
Infant Mass
Our ‘Belonging Mass’ will take place at 09.30 on Friday 21st October. Father Victor will lead us in this celebration All are welcome. 
Windows
Our windows programme is coming to an end. I hope you can notice a great difference in their appearance. I am grateful to everyone for their time and patience whilst this project has been completed. Not least the children, who have managed to play in even less space than usual for a few weeks. Thank you.
Pitman Street and Parking
Can I remind you that it is very tight to drive and park on Pitman Street. I know we’d like to be as close to the school as possible but this sometimes is impossible. Throughout September we have had calls from local neighbours who are distressed at people parking inconsiderately but also at the way they have been spoken to and we have had bumps to cars. Can we find a way to resolve this? I have apologised on behalf of the community of St Joseph’s to the people involved.
Dates for your diary
Friday October 21st International Day – children wear international dress (see above)
Monday October 24th - Friday October 28th - HALF TERM
Friday November 4th – Coffee Morning 9.15 am
Reflection
‘I will praise you Lord, you have rescued me’ Psalm 29(30):1
