MESSAGE FROM PRINCIPAL

REFLECTION – June 2026 – Corpus Christi

This week we celebrate the Solemnity of the Most Holy Body and Blood of Christ

This weekend we celebrate the Solemnity of the Most Holy Body and Blood of Christ, traditionally known as Corpus Christi (Latin for "Body of Christ").

The roots of this beautiful feast trace back to the 13th century. A Belgian nun, St. Juliana of Cornillon, spent years praying for a dedicated feast day just to thank God for the incredible gift of the Eucharist. Her prayers, combined with a famous Eucharistic miracle in Bolsena, Italy, led Pope Urban IV to establish the worldwide feast in 1264. To help the Church celebrate, the great theologian St. Thomas Aquinas composed some of our most beloved hymns, which we still sing today.

In the busyness life it can be easy to lose sight of what happens at every Mass. Corpus Christi is our annual reminder that the Eucharist is not just a symbol; it is the real, living presence of Jesus Christ, given to sustain us.

This feast carries a powerful message about community and identity:

• Food for the Soul: Just as our bodies need food to grow, our spirits need spiritual nourishment to navigate life's challenges.
• Becoming What We Receive: When we receive the Eucharist, we are called to become Christ’s hands and feet. We are called to look out for the lonely, forgive those who hurt us, and live with open, generous hearts.

Prayer:

Dear Lord Jesus,

We thank You for the gift of Yourself in the Holy Eucharist. As we celebrate the feast of Corpus Christi, refresh our hearts and renew our faith.

When we are tired, be our strength. When we are anxious, be our peace. Nourished by Your love, help us to bring Your kindness, patience, and joy into our world.

Amen.

RT HON DARREN JONES MP VISITS POLITICS AND LAW STUDENTS

Our Politics and Law students were treated to a guest visit from the Rt Hon Darren Jones MP, a senior member of the government who serves as Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster, Chief Secretary to the Treasury and is a Cabinet level Minister.

Mr Jones, who is a Lawrence Weston native, shared his experiences of Westminster life and discussed the day-to-day realities of representing a constituency and delivering policy.

The floor was opened to a Q&A session. Our students put their classroom knowledge to the test, grilling the Cabinet minister with sophisticated questions on current affairs and public service. 

It was an invaluable opportunity to engage directly with someone operating at the very heart of government.

NATIONAL SCHOOL SPORTS SUMMIT 

On Wednesday, 3rd June our talented dance group had the honour of performing at the National School Sports Summit, opening the event in front of an audience of more than 500 delegates from across the education and sports sectors.

The performance showcased the group's dedication, creativity, and passion, setting an energetic and inspiring tone for the day ahead. Their hard work and commitment were evident as they confidently took to the stage and delivered an outstanding opening performance.

Adding to the occasion, Josh A was unexpectedly invited to speak to the audience about the group's dance journey. With only ten minutes' notice, Josh stepped up to address the room of over 500 people, sharing the story of the group's development, achievements, and experiences.

The event was a fantastic opportunity to celebrate the impact of dance and student leadership within education. We are incredibly proud of all the performers.

Congratulations to everyone involved on a memorable and successful day.

TEAM PILGRIM

Team Pilgrim’s Junior Cricket Team were looking to build on their impressive victory over BFS before half-term, but faced a strong Fairfield side with an excellent bowling attack.

After losing a number of early wickets, including a hat-trick from Fairfield’s opening bowler, Team Pilgrim were left with a challenging task when they took to the field.

The team responded with great determination, working hard to restrict the run rate and showing plenty of effort on the field. However, despite their resilience, wickets proved difficult to come by and Fairfield eventually reached their target, securing victory by five wickets.

Pilgrim of the Match: Dann F for a fantastic effort on the field and an excellent attitude throughout the game.

EUCHARISTIC MINISTERS COMMISSIONING

13 Year 10 Pupils have put themselves forward to be commissioned as Extraordinary Ministers of Communion (Eucharistic Ministers) and were commissioned at the Mass to celebrate the Feast of St Bede.

Canon Tom Finnegan joined us for Mass and commissioned our new ministers who all took part in the Mass. They begin their ministry from Term 6 and will be serving at all of our upcoming Masses.  Congratulations to all involved!

SILVER DUKE OF EDINBURGH EXPEDITION

Congratulations to Year 10 students who successfully completed their Duke of Edinburgh silver practice expedition.

The teams faced a true test of self-resilience, navigating through challenging terrain and carrying all they needed to survive on their backs. Their practical skills were put to the test while having to set up a camp and cooking with very basic stoves.

They have returned sore and tired, but with invaluable experience and a much clearer idea about the upcoming events. 

They are now ready to take their assessed expedition later this term.

A huge thank you to all the staff who gave up their time to support our students. 

SHARE YOUR EXPERIENCE, INSPIRE A STUDENT

We are looking for parents who may be available to support our Year 13 students by taking part in mock university interviews.

If you have experience of university applications, interviews, or simply feel confident speaking with students, we would greatly appreciate your help.

Please get in touch if you are interested or would like more information. Thank you for supporting our students as they prepare for their next steps!

SAFEGUARDING SPOTLIGHT

We would like to remind all parents to park with due care and consideration for the local community, particularly on Lawrence Weston Road.                                          
Parents are requested to avoid parking in the bus bays and at adjoining junctions or in front of driveways at the beginning and end of the day.                                        
The children have been reminded about the importance of using the designated crossing points on the Long Cross and Lawrence Weston Road.