ST JAMES’ CATHOLIC HIGH SCHOOL
SEPTEMBER NEWSLETTER 2022
MESSAGE FROM OUR HEADTEACHER
Welcome to the first edition of our school newsletter for this academic year. Although we are only a month in, so much has happened in that short time. There have been a number of trips, visits and retreats that have already taken place, giving our pupils those wider opportunities to develop their education. Worthy of particular mention was the rewards trip, delayed from taking place at the end of last year due to the excessive heat, where over 60 pupils spent the day at London Zoo. This was coordinated by Mr Dyer in recognition of those pupils achieving the highest number of merits. We also welcomed Bishop John Sherrington into school at the very start of the year, with the highlight of a very busy morning for him being the celebration of mass with our sixth form pupils. He has since written to the school to express his gratitude for the very warm welcome he received. As a school, our showcase event at the start of the year is always, open evening, a chance for us to show prospective pupils and their parents the wide range of opportunities available to them here at St James’. The evening was a resounding success thanks to the hard work of both our pupils and staff, with over three hundred families in attendance. I know that the newsletter will highlight so much more of what has happened across the first month of the school year and I know you will be inspired by what you read.
Mr Ellul
MESSAGE FROM OUR HEAD STUDENT
We are now into our second month of this academic year, and so much has happened in the past four short weeks. From auditions for ‘The Adams Family’ school musical, to the 2-minute silence for the passing of the Queen, to the new liturgical house assemblies, it has been a very eventful year thus far. Last week, in particular, was our school's Open Evening, which provided an opportunity for many students to assist in departments across the school, and demonstrate the VERITAS values to prospective students. And for the sixth form students, within our yearly retreat. There were opportunities for reflection, as well as the development of skills such as communication and team-building. For all students, the past month has been spent adjusting to our new positions in our school community in our new year groups, and hopefully, the following months will be just as successful as this one has been.
Aoife Oliver
'I HAVE COME THAT THEY MAY HAVE LIFE AND HAVE IT TO THE FULL' JOHN 10:10
SOCIAL MEDIA HIGHLIGHTS
Click on the photos to find out more information
Year 12 Artwork
Francesca, a Year 12 student is inspired by, the artist, Takato-Yamamoto. ‘His delicate touches in his compositions allow his artwork to never feel heavy-handed; I wanted to use that in my rhythm & cycles project since he portrays mental health in a very unique way.’
Year 12 Artwork
Year 12 student, Christina, investigated the painting technique of Roby Dwi Antono. Christina said, "I like his concept of mixing innocence with brutality, originating from childhood mixed with adverseness."
Summertime reading
Christiano from Year 7 is currently reading 'The World's Worst Pets', written by the critically-acclaimed, "This book is filled with a lot of laughter & I'm really enjoying it. I can definitely see why David Walliams' books are so popular!"
Summertime reading
Andreea, Year 7, is currently reading "The Star Outside My Window" by Onjali Q Rauf! Andreea recommends this novel to those who love suspense and mystery. We hope Andreea enjoys this compelling read!
Summertime reading
Rebecca, Year 8, is loving and reading "13 Minutes," written by Sarah Pinborough. "Sixteen-year-old Natasha dies for 13 minutes after a plunge into an icy river." We hope no nightmares were induced after reading this gripping thriller!
Summertime reading
Maria, in Year 7, read "The Colour of Magic", an interesting read.“This is a book about parallel worlds. I recommend it, especially if you love fantasy books, and it's also full of surprises.
Summertime reading
Ese, Year 7, is currently enjoying, "The Cousins", “With their mother disowning them and leaving them with 5 words, the cousins are set to uncover the truth.” We're curious about the 5 words; there's only one way to find out!
Summertime reading
Wilcia, in Year 9, loved reading "Creator Lake."
“I chose to read this because it is full of secrets, and even just looking at the cover makes me want to dive into the book! I recommend this if you love mystery novels.”
Summertime reading
Shannon, Year 8, is reading "Holes" by Louis Sachar. “Stanley was wrongly accused of a crime, so digging holes every day, blistering hands, cruel counsellors, and deadly lizards are part of everyday life."
'I HAVE COME THAT THEY MAY HAVE LIFE AND HAVE IT TO THE FULL' JOHN 10:10
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'I HAVE COME THAT THEY MAY HAVE LIFE AND HAVE IT TO THE FULL' JOHN 10:10
UPCOMING EVENTS
'I HAVE COME THAT THEY MAY HAVE LIFE AND HAVE IT TO THE FULL' JOHN 10:10
It is with tremendous sadness that we learned of the death of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II. May she rest in peace.
Our prayers are with her family at this most difficult time and we also give thanks for the inspiration The Queen has provided to the Nation throughout her years of distinguished service. A lifetime of service carried out with great humility and dedication to her own faith.
The Pope said he joins everyone “in praying for the late Queen’s eternal rest, and in paying tribute to her life of unstinting service to the good of the Nation and the Commonwealth, her example of devotion to duty, her steadfast witness of faith in Jesus Christ and her firm hope in his promises.”
“Our prayer is that she is now received into the merciful presence of God, there to be reunited with her beloved Prince Philip. This is the promise of our faith, and our deep consolation."
“Queen Elizabeth II will remain, always, a shining light in our history. May she now rest in peace. We pray for His Majesty the King, as he assumes his new office even as he mourns his mother."
God save the King.
'I HAVE COME THAT THEY MAY HAVE LIFE AND HAVE IT TO THE FULL' JOHN 10:10
UEFA Women's EURO Final - Natalia Catana
There's no doubt that we're all still reeling from the UEFA Women's EURO Final, but did you know that one of our Year 8 students, Natalia Catana, delivered the match ball? "I was so nervous but equally excited on the inside. When I came onto the pitch, the crowd's noise and the flashing lights were mesmerising and it was an honour to deliver the match ball to more than 87,000 fans who were watching me! It was an experience I'll never forget - especially England winning!" This is fantastic news and we are so proud of Natalia - well done!
Work Experience - Andre Cox-Clayton
Congratulations to Andre Cox 11T for successfully completing his Year 10 work experience with Metroline Buses! Metroline's Rob Pycock, Service Manager responsible for Edgware and Cricklewood garages said that he has invited Andre back for them during the school holidays. Andre worked as part of the service control team and communicated directly with bus drivers on their routes. Informing and instructing them on traffic conditions, diversions and changes to timetable schedules. In his feedback report, Rob made glowing references to Andre's willingness to learn, his confidence in the workplace and his outstanding attitude and demeanour throughout. Well done Andre!
Prince’s Trust Institute Award
The English Department at St James’ is proud to have been recently recognised and awarded the Prince’s Trust Institute award in Subject Leadership for the second year in a row. This coveted award recognises the English department’s challenging, innovative and enriching curriculum.
Long Serving Staff - Una Browne
After more than 30 years of loyal service to St James', working in our school kitchen, Una Browne leaves us today for a well-earned retirement and to spend time with her lovely grandchildren. We wish her all the best!
'I HAVE COME THAT THEY MAY HAVE LIFE AND HAVE IT TO THE FULL' JOHN 10:10
All of life is a journey, full of new encounters and new experiences. In this journey, we have a destination, but we also have a path to follow to get there. Jesus insisted on the importance of this: “I am the Way, the Truth, and the Life” John 14:6.
What are you looking for when choosing a school for your children? What is the truth they should live? What is the way to get there? Is it the shiny new buildings or, does it in fact matter more what is happening inside them?
At St James’ we care about your child’s intellectual, moral, and spiritual, development. We help them on a journey to fulfill their unique individual potential. We do this by striving for excellence and aiming high. But we also have integrity and therefore know that the way is not straight and easy. We uphold the dignity of every person and we do this by encouraging each student to use their talents to create a community that they can be proud of, that they can learn from, and that will be there for them every step of the way.
Mrs Signorini
School Chaplain
'I HAVE COME THAT THEY MAY HAVE LIFE AND HAVE IT TO THE FULL' JOHN 10:10
Traditionally Black History Month has focused on the struggle, the hardship, the battle for human rights, the barbarity of slavery and the triumph out of adversity for black people. This is a vitally important and critical part of the story of Black history. It's right and proper that we should know and understand our collective history. It’s right that we are careful, thoughtful and reflective when we explore such a powerful and emotive narrative.
This year, for Black History Month, students will be expanding their frame of reference by exploring the beautiful traditions, stories, achievements, ancestries, tribal histories, music, food and culture of black life and how these impact and influence so massively on our culture and society not just here in the United Kingdom but globally. We will all be thinking about the Black future which we all hope will burn bright.
Black celebrities from all walks of life are of course an important part of our culture but our focus will be on black, thinkers, scientists, advocates, inventors, activists, businesswomen and men, social workers, philanthropists, explorers, writers, historians, geographers, artist journalists and more. These are all our inspirational role models.
We want to see students becoming advocates, to speak to the truth as fact gatherers, as teachers and celebrants and the work for this project will begin on the 7th of October as part of the House Drop Down Day.
Black Achievement, History and Futures will be featured in all subject areas but this project will be owned by students and driven by them. Black history month is a part of all our work and by joining hands together and working really hard we can try to make sure that diversity and inclusion are threaded through all aspects of school life.
Richard Sellek
Character and Resilience Lead
Head of Drama
'I HAVE COME THAT THEY MAY HAVE LIFE AND HAVE IT TO THE FULL' JOHN 10:10
September Masses
-Staff Mass:
This took place on the 1st of September and was celebrated by Father Brian.
'Heavenly Father, We pray for the prosperity and fruitfulness of St James' school community, that the Catholic ethos and commitment to Gospels values will be evident in all the school does.'
-Year 7 Welcome mass:
This took place on the 5th of September and was celebrated by Father Brian.
'Heavenly Father, We thank you for your love, support and guidance that has taken us to St James'. We pray that our journey may continue to be blessed with your love and guidance. Help us to grow into the people you have designed us to be.'
-Mass of Thanksgiving for the new academic Year:
This took place on the 8th of September and was celebrated by Bishop John Sherrington.
'We pray for all in our school community; that they will have the strength and wisdom to continue to build the kingdom of God within our school community this academic year. Give all within our community a renewed faith, energy and wisdom.'
Bishop John Sherrington Visit
On Thursday, September we were privileged to welcome Bishop John Sherrington, area bishop for north London to spend the morning with us as a school community. The day started with Bishop John celebrating Mass for our Sixth Form students for the start of the academic year. It was a celebration which drew on different members of the student body together as readers, servers and musicians.
Bishop John commented on the prayerful and reflective nature of the Mass. After break time, Bishop John spent time with a student panel and staff panel reflecting on the Synod journey. The discussion showed that the pupils had a considerable passion for their faith as well as the importance of being part of a Catholic community, and how the Church might change in the future. It was an opportunity for Bishop John to listen to our community representatives and to share with us the work that the Church and the Synod are undertaking. We look forward to welcoming Bishop John back to the school in the future.
Year 12/13 Retreat
A retreat is an important part of the Religious Education curriculum in all Catholic schools and provides an invaluable opportunity for continued spiritual growth and reflection. In this crucial year of their education journey, this retreat brings the cohort together, and practices reflection and well-being skills. It brings the cohort together and is an excellent way to strengthen friendships The retreat takes place at the RAF museum, located opposite the school. The Year 12/13s were wonderfully respectful while participating. They also had a chance to witness two wonderful speakers, Tim and Jake from Hillsong.
'All of life is a journey. full of new encounters and new experiences. As we travel we discover more about ourselves and others and life itself. But life is not meant to be just aimless and wandering. We have a destination. In the journey of life, we not only have a destination, but we also have a way. Jesus himself said, 'I am the Way, the Truth and the Life' (John 14:6)
Current Clubs
There is a range of clubs that we offer for Staff and Pupils. Below are some examples if you would like to join, for more information see Mrs Signorini.
'I HAVE COME THAT THEY MAY HAVE LIFE AND HAVE IT TO THE FULL' JOHN 10:10
Theology Conference
Our A-Level RE students attending St Mary Theology Conference. Students had the opportunity to attend lectures on secularism, bioethics & Jesus. Spending the day on campus also gave an invaluable insight into university life.
Ian McEwan Talk
A-Level English students in years 12 and 13 went to the Southbank Centre to hear from Ian McEwan, one of our authors, as he spoke about his new book Lessons, his career and his views on the world today. Kirsten Cubero, Year 12 learner: 'The Ian McEwan trip was an enjoyable and unforgettable experience that I extremely recommend. It was fascinating to have a famous author speak so close to us. I am grateful to the school for setting up this opportunity; learning new perspectives and ideas, and as we all made our own separate ways home, the atmosphere of the night was electric. As students and part of the audience, we were left feeling a sense of accomplishment,'
A Level NEA Field Trip
As part of the A2 Unit 3 coursework element in Geography, pupils had the opportunity to travel to Swanage in Dorset. This residential trip allowed them to carry out fieldwork and research techniques that can be applied to the Unit 3 coursework element. They first travelled to Dorchester, where they were asking locals about their views on their town and comparing this to Colindale. They measured the features of sand dunes, comparing them to a typical sand dune (psammosere) and the human impact on the sand dunes. They then travelled to Durdle Door to get a clear understanding of what factors impact the shape of the coastline. They compared this to a location with lots of coastal management, Swanage.
Rewards Trip
On Monday we took 50 pupils from across the school on a rewards trip to London Zoo. Our pupils were celebrating their achievement point totals and enjoyed the chance to spend a day out exploring one of the best attractions that London has to offer.
'I HAVE COME THAT THEY MAY HAVE LIFE AND HAVE IT TO THE FULL' JOHN 10:10
Tender Workshop
Thank you to year 12 for your thoughtful and sensitive responses in the recent tender workshops.
Your feedback shows us that 97% if you brother it really helped to show the features of negative relationships and the red flags to look out for. 94% stated it also helped to show what good relationships look like.
Here is some of your feedback about the day “I learnt a lot of beneficial things from the Tender Workshop about toxic relationships and how to deal with it”, “it showed healthy and unhealthy relationships clearly”, “It was easy seeing in action how relationships can affect people's lives”, “It helped me clearly understand what a healthy and unhealthy relationship looks like and how I can remove myself from a situation like that”.
Bank of England Workshop
Here is some of your feedback about the day 'It was really interesting to learn about the fiscal policy set by the government and its constraints on spending and taxes. Also, have me a good insight into what careers I can go into in regards to Economics.'
Art Workshop
Year 12 pupils took part in an Art Workshop, to help them improve their skills. Where they then can implement it in their research of artists. This workshop specifically helped towards their project which is Formal Elements. Mrs Smetana provides workshops throughout the Year, giving advice to our students to help develop their skills and increase their confidence.
Shauna says ' I found this very helpful, it gave me good insight and now I have a better understanding of how I can use these techniques in my project.
'I HAVE COME THAT THEY MAY HAVE LIFE AND HAVE IT TO THE FULL' JOHN 10:10
At St James' we have a range of engaging and informative lessons throughout all subjects. Down below are some examples of what has been happening this past month!
MFL
Our year 7 students have created lovely posters with prayers in Spanish to pay tribute to Queen Elizabeth II.
History
Year 11 history students were brilliant in their lesson on exam skills. Paula H said “our history lesson was really helpful! We looked at how to use our previous knowledge to answer source questions”
'I HAVE COME THAT THEY MAY HAVE LIFE AND HAVE IT TO THE FULL' JOHN 10:10
At St James, we offer a variety of Extra- Curricular activities across all subjects. Here are some examples of clubs that are currently taking place. If you would like to join a club please check out the extra-curricular timetable below!
Word of Mouth Club
Ms Zinovieff’s ‘Word of Mouth club’ were busy at work today solving the crime of Ms Darcy’s murder. Ms Sidey is currently looking like a prime suspect, but join EN4 at 1:55 every Thursday to help solve the case. Trial to follow soon…
Extra - Curricular Timetable
'I HAVE COME THAT THEY MAY HAVE LIFE AND HAVE IT TO THE FULL' JOHN 10:10
LRC Access
This is the new LRC timetable. Year 7 to Year 11 get 3 sessions a week, o that more pupils can enjoy the LRC and have adequate time to browse and borrow books. Year 12 and 13 are welcome (when the LRC is open) for quiet study, borrowing books or reading. I would love your support in getting the ‘word out’ to encourage pupils to come in to do homework, quiet study or read.
Current Clubs
There is a range of After school activities in the LRC.
Banned Books Week
In 213 BC, the great Chinese Emperor Qin Shi Huang buried 460 scholars alive before burning all the books in his kingdom, so he could control how history would remember his reign. Of course, since there were no books or scholars left to record the event, the exact details of this episode remain contested. But the point is, as long as books have existed there have been people trying to stop other people from reading them. At St James’ with our Veritas Values and our Ethos, we believe that we can make the right choices.
How many have you read?
The theme for Banned Books Week 2022 is "Books Unite Us. Censorship Divides Us."
Sharing stories important to us means sharing a part of ourselves. Books reach across boundaries and build connections between readers. Censorship, on the other hand, creates barriers. ‘Banned Books Week’ in support of the freedom to seek and express ideas, even those some consider unorthodox or unpopular
BookBuzz
Exciting news for our Year 7s, Book Buzz is here! BookBuzz is a reading programme from BookTrust that aims to help schools inspire a love of reading in 11 to 13-year-olds. At St James, we pay for the BookBuzz Books so that we can give our Year 7 Pupils the opportunity to choose their own book to take home and keep from a list of 17 titles. The Books are carefully selected by a panel of experts at BookTrust to ensure quality, suitability and to encourage reading for pleasure.
Autumn Book Fair
Our autumn Book Fair is Back!
From 10 October to 14 there will be a case of books in the LRC at Break, Lunch and After School for pupils to browse and buy! Payment is made via the scholastic Payment link which will be given to pupils interested in buying books.
'I HAVE COME THAT THEY MAY HAVE LIFE AND HAVE IT TO THE FULL' JOHN 10:10
JOB OF THE WEEK
The school's Careers Advisor, Mr Stonehouse has launched Career of the Week. Each week he has updated the school website with careers starting with the letter A. Below are the Careers that have been posted this month. To keep up to date and access past careers please visit our careers section under our website: https://www.st-james.barnet.sch.uk/255/careers-information
HELPFUL LINKS
'I HAVE COME THAT THEY MAY HAVE LIFE AND HAVE IT TO THE FULL' JOHN 10:10
HOUSE POINTS
'I HAVE COME THAT THEY MAY HAVE LIFE AND HAVE IT TO THE FULL' JOHN 10:10
Contact Us
Email: admin@st-james.barnet.sch.uk
Website: www.st-james.barnet.sch.uk
Location: Great Strand, Colindale NW9 5PE
Phone: 020 8358 2800