Snippets of News - 2015/16
Disney and Marvel Dress-up Day
Reception class all dressed up.
15 July 2016
On Friday 15th July Nursery and Reception held a Disney and Marvel dress up day.
All of the children enjoyed coming to school in their special costumes!
Brilliant to be in Britain Display
Our updated display.
14 July 2016
On Thursday 14th July during our assembly we revealed our updated Brilliant to be in Britain display showing our new Prime Minister, Mrs Theresa May.
Sacrament of Confirmation
Our Year 6 children following their Confirmation.
7 July 2016
On Thursday 7th July Year 6 received the Sacrament of Confirmation from the Bishop at Our Lady and St Thomas of Canterbury Church in Dudley.
It was a beautiful occasion with shared with family and friends. The school choir sang and played musical instruments to make the occasion extra special.
Our Smoke Free Dragon
Our lovely new addition.
4 July 2016
On Monday 4th July we had our Smoke Free Dragon installed at school.
The Smoke Free Dragon has been installed in preparation for work in September that Years 3 and 5 will complete.
The children will be taking part in anti-smoking and anti-passive smoking activities in September.
The Prodigal Son Assembly
Year 3 in their assembly.
1 July 2016
On Friday 1st July Year 3 shared their assembly all about The Prodigal Son.
The children reminded us that like the father in the story God always forgives us if we are truly sorry.
Also during the assembly we held a one minute silence to remember the people who died during The Battle of the Somme which started 100 years ago today.
Year 1 trip to Clevedon
Year 1 on the pier at Clevedon.
1 July 2016
On Friday 1st July Year 1 went on a fantastic trip to Clevedon. The children left school at 7.30am to make the coach journey to Clevedon.
During the day the children enjoyed going on the pier, beach, bouncy castle, train and playing in the sandpit and park.
A great day was enjoyed by all!
Reception's Minibeast Hunt
Reception class on their Minibeast Hunt.
30 June 2016
On Thursday 30th June Reception class went on a very exciting Minibeast Hunt.
The children had to tally the number of minibeasts they saw and had great fun looking in lots of different places.
Year 6's Music Performance
Year 6 in their concert.
28 June 2016
On Tuesday 28th June Year 6 performed the music which they have been learning with Mr C from Dudley Performing Arts to the rest of Key Stage 2 and their parents.
Year 6 had learned a total of nine songs, using different notes on their guitars.
It was excellent. Well done Year 6!
Year 4's Music Performance
Year 4 preparing for their concert.
28 June 2016
On Tuesday 28th June Year 4 performed the music which they have been learning with Mr C from DPA (Dudley Performing Arts) to the rest of Key Stage 2 and their parents.
Year 4 had put together an orchestra which created a piece of music to match action taking place on a piece of film.
It was excellent. Well done Year 4!
Reception's trip to Hatton Park
Let the race begin!
24 June 2016
On Friday 24th June Reception class went on their class trip to Hatton Park.
The children took part in sheep racing, held guinea pigs and enjoyed some time on the bouncy castles and trampolines.
Year 1's Assembly on St Rose of Lima
Year 1 sharing their learning.
24 June 2016
On Friday 24th June Year 1 shared their learning about St Rose of Lima, their class saint.
The children had lots to share about ST Rose of Lima including a video telling us about her life and how she looked after people and followed Jesus.
Year 6's Retreat Day
Year 6 during their retreat.
23 June 2016
On Thursday 23rd June Year 6 took part in a special retreat day with Dan Callow in preparation for their Confirmation in a couple of weeks’ time.
The children had a lovely spiritual day thinking about the importance of the Sacrament they are about to receive.
The day ended with a special service which parents were invited to join.
Anti-Racism and Anti-Bullying Workshops
Year 5 children taking part in the workshop.
23 June 2016
On Thursday 23rd June children in Key Stage 2 took part in anti-racism and anti-bullying workshops with Equiliteach.
The child explored how Britain is a multicultural society where differences should be celebrated.
The children enjoyed taking part in the workshops.
Year 4's Cooking Lesson
Year 4 making fish fingers.
20 June 2016
On Monday 20th June Year 4 took part in their class cooking lesson.
The children made some fresh and healthy fish fingers. The children had a great time making the breadcrumbs for the fish fingers and they tasted delicious.
Year 2's Assembly on The Parable of the Sower
Year 2’s assembly.
17 June 2016
On Friday 17th June Year 2 shared their learning about The Parable of the Sower in their assembly.
The children acted and read beautifully which helped us to really understand the parable.
Sensational Spellers and Fantastic Phonics
Our spelling winners.
17 June 2016
On Friday 17th June the winners of the Sensational Spellings in Key Stage 2 and Fantastic Phonics in Key Stage 1 were presented.
Each week children are given spellings to learn, if they get full marks when they are tested a week later the children are able to put a raffle ticket in the special jar. Every half-term a winner is drawn!
Year 6 Learn About Bishop Milner
Miss Griffiths talking to the children.
16 June 2016
On Thursday 16th June Miss Griffiths from Bishop Milner came to talk to the Year 6 children.
The children asked Miss Griffiths lots of questions about Bishop Milner and are looking forward to their move to our secondary school.
Reception Children in the School Garden
Reception class planting with Mr Gilbert.
15 June 2016
On Wednesday 15th June children from Reception class went outside to plant some lettuce and spinach with Mr Gilbert in our garden.
The children had a fantastic time and can’t wait for it to grow so they can make a healthy salad.
Year 6 Visit St Michael's Church, Wolverhampton
Year 6 attending Mass in St Michael’s Church.
14 June 2016
On Tuesday 14th June Year 6 visited St Michael’s Church in Wolverhampton.
The children were invited to a special Mass celebrated by Bishop McGough (who will be confirming the children in a few weeks) as part of the Good Shepherd Appeal.
During Lent we donated some money to the Good Shepherd appeal so it was lovely to attend a Mass with them and recognise their good work!
Year 3 at the Black Country Musum
Year 3 at the Black Country Museum.
13 June 2016
On Monday 13th June Year 3 went on a trip to the Black Country Museum.
The children all had a fantastic time going into the school room and down into the underground mine.
World Refugee Day Assembly
Year 4's assembly.
10 June 2016
On Friday 10th June Year 4 shared their assembly all about World Refugee day.
The children shared the reasons why some people become refugees and some of the situations they have to go through.
Year 1 Visit Our Lady and St Thomas of Canterbury Church
Year 1 at the Church.
10 June 2016
On Friday 10th June Year 1 visited our Church – Our Lady and St Thomas of Canterbury in Dudley.
The children visited the church as their pilgrimage in this Year of Mercy.
The children enjoyed their visit and talking to Fr Emmanuel.
Year 4 Led Mass
Year 4’s altar display with the Jesuit Values for this half term.
7 June 2016
On Tuesday 7th June Year 4 led the first Mass of the last half in school this academic year.
The children led the Mass beautifully – reading and singing so well. Year 4 also introduced the Jesuit Values we are learning about this half term – Learned and Wise.
Hayley School Mass Band
Hagley Mass Band performing in our school.
27 May 2016
On Friday 27th May we were very lucky to be visited by Hayley Secondary School’s Mass Band.
The Mass band were amazing and together we performed some beautiful hymns – perfect for vocations week!
A big thank you to Hagley Mass Band for such an inspirational performance.
First Holy Communion Retreat Day
Acting out The Last Supper.
26 May 2016
On Thursday 26th May Year 3 had a special First Holy Communion retreat day with Dan Callow.
This day gave the children time to reflect on the Sacrament of First Holy Communion and they also held a special prayer service at the end of the day with their parents.
Year 1 in the School Garden
George talking to the Year 1 children.
24 May 2016
On 24th May Year 1 worked with George and Mr Gilbert in our school garden.
The children listened carefully about how to make sure the vegetables that we have planted grow big and strong!
Year 1 Pentecost Liturgy
Year 1’s class Liturgy display.
24 May 2016
On Tuesday 24th May Year 1 invited their parents into school to take part in a special Pentecost Liturgy.
Lots of parents came and took part in the Liturgy which focused on the Holy Spirit and the gifts God gives to us.
First Holy Communion
Our Year 3 children.
22 May 2016
On Sunday 22nd May our Year 3 children celebrated their First Holy Communion in Our Lady and St Thomas of Canterbury Church in Dudley.
It was a beautiful and special occasion for the children and their families.
Year 5's Fairtrade Assembly
Year 5 in their assembly.
20 May 2016
On Friday 20th May Year 5 shared their assembly all about Fairtrade.
The children read and acted fantastically and reminded us all why Fairtrade is so important and how the choices we make can make a big difference to other people all around the world.
Gardening with Year 6
Year 6 working in the garden.
19 May 2016
On Thursday 19th May children from Year 6 worked with Mr Gilbert and George to maintain their area of our garden.
The children have worked very hard and planted lots of vegetables which are growing well.
Year 1 Parent Workshops
Year 1 children working with their parents.
18 and 19 May 2016
On Wednesday 18th and Thursday 19th May Year 1 held their termly parent workshops.
The children invited their parents to join them in an RE lesson all about Pentecost.
The children worked very hard during the lesson with their parents and everyone had an enjoyable time.
Releasing our Butterflies
Preparing for release.
18 May 2016
On Wednesday 18th May, Reception and Nursery released the butterflies that have grown out of their cocoons.
Children in EYFS have really enjoyed learning all about mini-beasts and the release of the butterflies was very exciting!
Key Stage 1 Mass
The beautiful display.
17 May 2016
On Tuesday 17th May Key Stage 1 children led a special Mass dedicated to Our Lady.
The children read, acted and played the instruments beautifully and also created a beautiful display at the front of the altar reminding us of this half terms Jesuit values of being eloquent and truthful.
Flowers for Our Lady
The generous donations of flowers surrounding Mary.
17 May 2016
On Tuesday 17th May we asked the children to donate flowers for a special Mass dedicated to Our Lady.
Our children and their families were very generous and brought in a huge amount of flowers to offer to Mary during her special month.
The flowers surrounded the statue of Mary in the Hall during Mass before being shared with all of the classes enabling each class to have some flowers on their classroom altars next to their statues of Mary.
Year 2 Planting Vegetables
Year 2 planting.
16 May 2016
On Monday 16th May Year 2 went out into the garden with Mr Gilbert to plant some vegetables.
We are hoping that we get a good crop of vegetables so that we can use them in our cooking lessons!
Ascension Assembly
Our special assembly.
10 May 2016
On Tuesday 10th May we held a special Ascension Assembly.
The whole school gathered together to hear the Gospel reading about Ascension when Jesus ascended into heaven and watched a cartoon to help us all understand what happened even more.
Hunting for Minibeasts
Some of the children working with Guy.
6 May 2016
On Thursday 6th May Nursery and Reception children worked with Guy from the e-zone.
The children were looking for minibeasts – some were even staying in our minibeast hotel! The children had a great time in the sunshine, too.
Dudley Performing Arts Conference
Our wonderful school representatives.
5 May 2016
On Thursday 5th May Mr Hinton and some children from Year 6 accompanied by Mrs MacDonald went to speak at a conference being held by DPA (Dudley Performing Arts).
Mr Hinton and the children spoke about how we work with DPA at St Joseph’s to provide excellent music provision across the school.
The children represented our school perfectly and we were very proud of them – well done!
Rosary Assembly
A beautiful display for Our Lady as we prayed the Rosary together.
5 May 2016
During the month of May the children at St Joseph’s are learning more about the Rosary – as May is one of the months dedicated to Our Lady.
During the month the children will be learning about all of the mysteries of the Rosary and praying together in the classroom after lunch each day.
On Thursday 5th May we held the first of three special whole school Rosary assemblies where all of the children prayed a decade of the Rosary together in the hall.
Year 2's English Lesson with Parents
Year 2 working with their parents.
4 and 5 May 2016
On Wednesday 4th and Thursday 5th Year 2 invited their parents in to take part in an English lesson with an RE focus.
Lots of parents came in to take part in the lesson and work alongside their children.
Reception's English Lesson with Parents
Reception children working with their parents.
4 and 5 May 2016
On Wednesday 4th and Thursday 5th Reception class invited their parents in to take part in an English lesson with an RE focus.
Lots of parents came in to take part in the lesson and work alongside their children.
Year 5 Planting Vegetables
Year 5 planting.
4 May 2016
On Wednesday 4th May Year 5 took part in a planting activity in our special garden.
The children have planting lots of vegetables which we hope will grow well and we can use them in our cooking lessons!
Year 4 Planting Vegetables
Year 4 planting.
3 May 2016
On Tuesday 3rd May Year 4 took part in a planting activity in our special garden. The children have planted lots of vegetables which we hope will grow well and we can use them in our cooking lessons.
Year 4 Create an 'Orchestra'
Our Year 4 orchestra.
3 May 2016
On Tuesday 3rd May Year 4 worked with Mr C from DPA in their music lesson to create an orchestra.
The children have divide themselves into groups and each group is responsible for playing a different instrument.
The children loved the lessons and are enjoying creating their orchestra!
Year 5 Visit the Oratory
Year 5 children on their pilgrimage to the Oratory.
28 April 2016
On Thursday 28th April Year 5 visited the Oratory in Birmingham. The trip was a special pilgrimage for Year 5, one of many within the school to mark the Year of Mercy.
The children were joined by Fr Emmanuel who enjoyed the guided tour of the Oratory with the children.
Year 1 Learning Celebration
Year 1 ready to start their presentation.
28 April 2016
On Thursday 28th April Year 1 held their end of topic learning celebration.
The children shared their learning about materials and their properties. The children shared lots of their learning and were happy and confident in addressing the large number of parents who came to watch.
Well done Year 1.
Years 3 and 4 at Harvington Hall
Some of our Year 3 and 4 children.
22 April 2016
On Friday 22nd April Years 3 and 4 visited Harvington Hall on a special pilgrimage as part of our Year of Mercy events.
Fr Emmanuel joined the children on their pilgrimage, having a guided tour around Harvington Hall and then celebrating Mass together in the church.
It was a lovely spiritual day which all of the children and adults very much enjoyed.
Outdoor Lunch
Children enjoying their outdoor lunch.
20 April 2016
On Wednesday 20th April we opened our outdoor terrace for children who bring sandwiches for lunch to eat outside in the sunshine.
Let’s hope there are lots more sunny days to come!
New Pictures in our School Hall
Our two new pictures up in the school hall.
19 April 2016
After Mass on Tuesday 19th April Mr Hinton shared with the children the new pictures which have been put up in our school hall.
The one on the right just past the whiteboard is of Sr Faustina and was a present from Poland to the school from Fr Emmanuel.
The picture on the right next to the Hail Mary is of the Divine Mercy, a present to the school from Mr Hinton when he visited Poland too. The Divine Mercy was painted by Sr Faustina when Jesus asked her to help him come closer to the people.
Key Stage 1 Mass
Key Stage 1's beautiful display.
19 April 2016
On Tuesday 19th April children from Years 1 and 2 led a beautiful whole school Mass.
The children acted, read, brought up the offertory and played musical instruments perfectly o make the Mass very special.
At the front of the hall the children also created a beautiful display sharing the two Jesuit Values that we are focusing on this half term – eloquent and truthful
Year 1 and 2 RNLI Workshop
Year 1 children in their workshop.
13 April 2016
On Wednesday 13th April following the RNLI assembly about water safety with the whole school, Caroline Haycock a held a special workshop for Year 1 and Year 2 children talking about the work of the RNLI and how to be super safe at the seaside!
A Visitor from the RNLI
Caroline, from the RNLI, talking in assembly.
13 April 2016
On Wednesday 13th April Caroline Haycock a volunteer from the Royal National Lifeboat Institute came to visit us at St Joseph’s.
Caroline held a special whole school assembly talking about the work of the RNLI and to tell the children how they can stay safe around water – she bought lots of things to show the children which was very exciting.
Following the assembly Caroline worked with Year 1 and 2 taking a closer look at the seaside to link with their topics.
Year 3 Sacrament of Reconciliation
The Year 3 class Liturgy.
12 April 2016
On Tuesday 12th April Year 3 received the Sacrament of Reconciliation for the first time.
Following Mass, the children received the Sacrament from Fr Emmanuel and then took part in a special class Liturgy with their parents.
Year 6 Stations of the Cross
Year 6 acting the Stations of the Cross.
24 March 2016
On Thursday 24th March Year 6 completed our journey through Holy Week by performing the Stations of the Cross.
The children acted out the journey of Jesus carrying his cross to be crucified.
It was a moving assembly and a fitting end to Holy Week in school.
Spelling Test Winners
Our spelling winners this half term.
24 March 2016
On Wednesday 24th March we held our special end of term merit assembly.
During the assembly we gave out the £5 voucher spelling prizes to Key Stage 2 children.
The children have a weekly spelling test and if they get 10 out of 10 they receive a raffle ticket. Then, every half term a ticket is picked and the lucky winner gets a £5 voucher!
End of Term House Point Winners
The Forgiveness team captain holding the cup which is now dressed in the colours of Forgiveness until July.
24 March 2016
On Wednesday 24th March we held our special end of term merit assembly.
During the assembly we revealed the house point team winners for the Spring term. This term it was Forgiveness who won.
All of the teams did very well with them all gaining over 3000 points since Christmas!
End of Term Attendance Winners
Our 100% for two term attendance winners.
24 March 2016
On Wednesday 24th March we held our special end of term merit assembly.
During the assembly we hand out our termly attendance certificates. Children get certificates for 100% attendance in the Spring term and 97% attendance also in the Spring term.
We also give out certificates and medals for children who have achieved 100% in the two terms since September – this term that was 46 children!
The Stations of the Cross in Church
Our children at the end of the service.
23 March 2016
On the evening of Wednesday 23rd March St Joseph’s acted out the Stations of the Cross in the Church of Our Lady and St Thomas of Canterbury.
It was a beautiful service where the children read, acted, played instruments and sang about the events of Holy week.
Lots of children and their families joined us in Church to make the service very special.
Year 2 Learning Celebration
Year 2 acting in their learning celebration.
23 March 2016
On Wednesday 23rd March Year 2 held their end of topic Learning Celebration.
Year 2 invited their parents into school to share all of their learning this half term.
The children had a great time acting out a scene from a Victorian classroom!
Year 5's Agony in the Garden
Year 5’s special assembly.
23 March 2016
On Wednesday 23rd March it was Year 5’s turn to share their Agony in the Garden Holy Week assembly.
The children acted out the events when Jesus prayed in Gethsemane up to the point that he was betrayed by Judas.
The children acted and read with reverence and helped their parents and the rest of the school understand what happened before Jesus was taken before Pontius Pilate.
Year 4's Assembly on The Last Supper
Year 4’s special assembly.
22 March 2016
Continuing with our special Holy Week assemblies on Tuesday 22nd March Year 4 presented their assembly about The Last Supper.
The children acted and read confidently and clearly sharing the events of The Last Supper with their parents and the rest of the school.
Nursery's Trip to Sandwell Valley
Nursery on their trip..
21 and 22 March 2016
On Tuesday 21st and Wednesday 22nd March Nursery went on their trip to Sandwell Valley.
The children had a fantastic time on their trip and behaved beautifully – we are very proud of them!
Football Match Triumph
The football team giving their match report in assembly.
21 March 2016
On Tuesday 21st March St Joseph’s Football Team played a match against Kate’s Hill Primary School.
The match was very exciting with lots of children from St Joseph’s making the journey to Kate’s Hill to cheer the players on.
St Joseph’s won the match 10-1!
Year 3's Palm Sunday Assembly
Year 3 sharing their special assembly.
21 March 2016
On Monday 21st March to mark the beginning of Holy Week in school, the children in Year 3 shared a special Palm Sunday assembly.
The children read and acted out the events of Palm Sunday beautifully and we all sang together.
Celebrating St Joseph's Day
Our special St Joseph’s Day Assembly.
18 March 2016
On Friday 18th March we celebrated the special feast day of St Joseph.
To mark the special day (actually on Saturday 19th March) we held a special St Joseph’s Day assembly, learned a little more about St Joseph and the connection to our school and sang together.
After the special assembly everyone had a special treat of an ice-lolly to celebrate the special day!
Year 4 Learning Celebration on the Romans
Well done Year 4.
17 March 2016
On Thursday 17th March Year 4 presented their learning celebration to parents.
The children shared their learning about the Romans, by showing roman jewellery, weapons, games, villages and websites that they had made.
It was a wonderful Roman Exhibition!
Year 4 Learn the Dums
Year 4 banging their drums.
15 March 2016
On Tuesday 15th March Year 4 began their weekly drumming lessons.
We have a teacher from Dudley Performing Arts who comes in weekly to teach whole class musical instruments to our children.
Year 6's Guitar Lessons
Year 6 and their guitars.
15 March 2016
On Tuesday 15th March Year 6 began their weekly guitar lessons.
We have a teacher from Dudley Performing Arts who comes in weekly to teach whole class musical instruments to our children.
Queen Elizabeth 90th Birthday Medals
One of the special medals given to the children.
14 March 2016
On Monday 14th March St Joseph’s began a special week in school – Brilliant in Britain Week.
The children from Nursery to Year 6 will be looking at the many different cultures which make up Great Britain today and finish the week with a dance festival celebrating some of these cultures.
To mark the start of the special week all of the children were given a special medal to commemorate both the Queen being the longest serving Monarch in Great Britain and the coming celebration of her 90th birthday.
Recorder Concert for Parents
Everyone thought the children were fantastic.
14 March 2016
On Monday 14th March Years 1 and 2 presented their recorder concert to parents.
The children have been working with Miss Hopkins to learn how to play the recorder and learn some fun new songs, too.
The concert was lovely as we are very proud of all of the children!
Year 3's Learning Celebration
Some of the children sharing their learning.
11 March 2016
On Friday 11th March Year 3 held their end of topic learning celebration.
The children prepared a wonderful presentation to share with parents what they have been learning about this term.
Year 1's Assembly on Lent
Year 1’s assembly.
11 March 2016
On Friday 11th March Year 1 shared their assembly about making a change during Lent.
The children reminded us of the church’s message to pray, fast and give alms and acted out the story of the two sons.
It was a lovely assembly and we are very proud of everyone in Year 1.
Cafod Family Fast Day
One of our special CAFOD donation boxes.
11 March 2016
On Friday 11th March St Joseph’s took part in CAFOD’s Family Fast Day by giving up our playtime snack and putting some pennies in the box for CAFOD.
Year 5's Learning Celebration
Year 5 sharing their learning.
10 March 2016
On Thursday 10th March Year 5 shared their end of topic celebration with their parents.
The children shared lots of facts that they had been learning about in their class topics this term.
Year 2 Assembly
Year 2 acting out the miracle.
4 March 2016
On Friday 4th March Year 2 shared their assembly with their parents and the rest of the school.
The children re-told one of the Miracles of Jesus where he calmed the storm when the disciples were on a boat out at sea. The assembly reminded us that we need to always have faith and trust in God.
The children read, acted and sang beautifully.
Year 4 Lent Liturgy
Year 4’s class Liturgy.
4 March 2016
On Friday 4th March Year 4 invited their parents to their Lent Class Liturgy.
The Liturgy was a beautiful, encouraging the children and parents to think of times they have told untruths – like Peter one of Jesus’ disciples.
The Liturgy had a lovely focus display, a peaceful guided mediation, prayers and songs.
Fairtrade Coffee Morning
Parents enjoying our Fairtrade coffee morning.
4 March 2016
On Friday 4th March we held a special coffee morning to celebrate Fairtrade fortnight.
Parents were invited into school for a cup of Fairtrade tea or coffee along with some cake and Fairtrade biscuits. We also held a Fairtrade quiz where one of our parents won a box of sweets.
World Book Day
Some of our children dressed as their favourite characters.
3 March 2016
On Thursday 3rd March the children and staff were invited to dress up as their favourite book and comic characters to celebrate World Book Day.
The children really enjoyed dressing up and spent the day discussing their favourite books and characters and completing lots of World Book Day related activities.
St David's Day Mass
The beautiful altar display.
1 March 2016
On Tuesday 1st March Key Stage 1 children helped Father celebrate a special St David’s Day Mass in school by reading, acting and creating a lovely display for the altar.
The children reminded us of the Jesuit values that we are focussing on this half term – faith-filled and hopeful.
Year 5 Parents' English Lesson
Some of our Year 5 children and their parents.
29 February/2 March 2016
On Monday 29th February and Wednesday 2nd March Year 5 invited their parents into school to take part in an English lesson.
The parents and the children enjoyed the session and are already looking forward to the next one!
Year 5's Stations of the Cross
Year 5 beginning their Stations of the Cross journey.
26 February 2016
On Friday 26th February the children of St Joseph’s began to follow the Church’s tradition of walking the Stations of the Cross on a Friday during Lent.
hroughout Lent on a Friday different classes take it in turns to walk the Stations of the Cross in small groups, finishing their journey in the Prayer Area for a time of prayer and quiet reflection.
Parents Early Education Partnership Sessions
One of our parents and children working in a PEEP session.
24 February 2016
On Wednesday 24th February our PEEP (Parents Early Education Partnership) sessions for parents began.
The sessions are hosted by Mrs Hancox who informs parents how children learn in their early years of education.
Parents really enjoy the session which aims to be informal for informative!
Our Special Owl
The special owl displayed in our hall window.
24 February 2016
On Wednesday 24th February we displayed a copy of the special owls we presented to the teachers from SP118 in Wroclaw when they visited our school.
The owl reminds us that even though the teachers and the children are miles away they are in our thoughts and prayers.
Stations of the Cross Begins
Two of our children acting the parts of Jesus and Pontius Pilate at the first Station of the Cross.
24 February 2016
On Wednesday 24th February St Joseph’s began a series of special extra assemblies looking at each of the Stations of the Cross, taking time to reflect and pray at each station.
During the assembly two purple footprints are placed on the wall heading towards to Cross to mark our journey through Lent.
Guitar Concert
Year 5 performing on their guitars.
23 February 2016
On Tuesday 23rd February Years 3 and 5 performed a music concert for the rest of Key Stage 2 and lots of their parents.
Year 3 played the drums and shared the songs and rhythms they have been learning so far this year followed by Year 5 performing songs which they had learnt to play on the guitar.
We were very impressed and it was a lovely concert!
A Visit to Poland
Visiting one of the classes in SP118.
22 February 2016
During the week beginning Monday 22nd February, Mr Hinton, Mrs Cheema, Miss Wisniewski and Father Emmanuel visited Wroclaw in Poland to spend some time at our link school SP118.
The week was very successful and everyone enjoyed sharing ideas and working together on shared projects between our two schools to make the link between SP118 and St Joseph’s even stronger.
Selling Daffodils for Macmillan Cancer Care
Our Macmillan Daffodil sellers.
22 February 2016
During Lent in keeping with the Church’s message of praying, fasting and giving alms, we have been selling daffodils for Macmillan Cancer Care.
One of our Year 6 pupils asked if we could do some fundraising for Cancer earlier in the year and selling daffodils for Macmillan during Lent seemed perfect!
Sensational Spelling Winners
Our Sensational Spelling Winners!
12 February 2016
On Friday 12th February the Sensational Spelling winners for the first half of the Spring Term were announced.
Children in Key Stage 2 who get 10/10 in their weekly spelling test get a raffle ticket and a winner is drawn each half term.
Each of the winners receive a £5 voucher!
Year 3's Mother Language Day Assembly
Year 3 sharing their assembly.
12 February 2016
On Friday 12th February Year 3 shared their assembly celebrating Mother Language Day.
The children told the story of Selma who had to move to a different country and found it hard to learn a new language.
Year 3 reminded us how lucky we are that everyone is made to feel welcome in our school no matter where their come from, their faith or their mother language.
Librarian Visit
Some of our children enjoying their session with Jackie.
11 February 2016
On Thursday 11th February Jackie Bayliss from the Dudley Library Service visited all school and talked to all of the children about the Library Service in Dudley and shared some poems as part of our schools Poetry Week.
All of the children enjoyed their sessions and listening to some fantastic poetry!
Ash Wednesday
Some of our children proudly displaying the ashes on their forehead.
10 February 2016
On Wednesday 10th February – Ash Wednesday - we held a special service in the afternoon where all of our children and staff received the ashes.
We talked about what Ash Wednesday meant and thought a lot about what our journey through Lent would look like.
Fr Emmanuel blessed and gave us the ashes. It was a lovely service enjoyed by children, staff and lots of parents too.
Year 4's Assembly on The Prodigal Son
Year 4 in their assembly.
5 February 2016
On Friday 5th February Year 4 shared their assembly about The Prodigal Son.
The children told us the story in a modern way to help us understand how God forgives us when we are sorry. The acting and reading was perfect.
Well done Year 4!
Year 1 Learning Celebration
Year 1 ready to share their learning.
4 February 2016
On Thursday 4th February Year 1 shared their Learning Celebration with parents.
The children shared their learning about Christopher Columbus, Neil Armstrong and Florence Nightingale.
The children shared photos, acted out important events in history and shared their writing – as well as performing a lovely dance too!
A Visit from French Students
Our Year 4 children working with students from BMCC.
28 January 2016
On Thursday 28th February some students from Bishop Milner Catholic College visited children from Year 4 and 6 to help them with their French skills.
The students worked alongside Madame Cox to help develop our children’s skills in learning to speak French!
Year 2 Parents' English Lesson
Our Year 2 children working with one of our parents.
27 and 28 January 2016
On Wednesday 27th and Thursday 28th January, Year 2 invited their parents to an English lesson.
Lots of parents came into one of the workshops to work alongside their child and learn a bit more about how English is taught in Year 2.
Year 1's Cooking Lesson
Year 1 making snowman biscuits.
25 January 2016
On Monday 25th January Year 1 took part in a cooking lesson with Miss Sibley and Mrs Skelding.
The children made melting snowman biscuits which were delicious!
Fair Achiever School
Our new award logo.
22 January 2016
On Friday 22nd January we successfully renewed our Fair Trade Award and became a Fair Achiever School.
We are really proud to be a Fair Achiever school as it demonstrates how much we believe in Fairtrade and our continued commitment to help others.
Year 6 Assembly
The Year 6 children acting out some parables that they had written themselves.
22 January 2016
On Friday 22nd January Year 6 presented their assembly about the Jesuit Values of Compassion and Loving which we are focussing on this half term.
The children used the example of the Good Samaritan and also acted out modern day parables that they had written themselves.
Key Stage 2 Meet Professor McGinty
Professor McGinty in action!
21 January 2016
On Thursday 21st January the children from Key Stage 2 were fortunate to be able to work with Professor McGinty.
Professor McGinty visited our school and took the children on a historical adventure to learn more about various period in history – complete with lots of artefacts and fun.
Year 1 Parents English Lesson
Parents working with their children.
20 and 21 January 2016
On Wednesday 20th and Thursday 21st January Year 1 invited their parents in to take part in an English lesson.
Lots of parents were able to make the workshops and work alongside their child.
Everyone enjoyed the lessons.
Pinocchio Goes to the Circus
Waiting for the performance to begin.
19 January 2016
On Tuesday 19th January lots of the families from St Joseph’s were lucky enough to be given free tickets to see Pinocchio goes to the Circus presented by Circus Starr at Brierley Hill Civic Centre.
Parents were invited to go into a free raffle and tickets were picked out at random.
The performance took place at 7pm and was enjoyed by lots of parents and children.
Reception Workshop
Parents finding out about children's learning.
13 and 15 January 2016
On Wednesday 13th and Friday 15th January Reception Class invited their parents to join them for a lesson in school.
Lots of parents came to join in the lesson and enjoyed finding out what their children are learning in school.
Year 5 Sports at Bishop Milner
Year 5 at Bishop Milner.
13 January 2016
On Wednesday 13th January Year 5 visited Bishop Milner for the afternoon to have a look at their new sports facilities.
Year 5 were joined by St Chad’s Year 5 class and all had a great time enjoying the new facilities at Bishop Milner Catholic College.
First Mass of 2016
Our lovely altar display.
12 January 2016
On Tuesday 12th January we celebrated our first Mass of 2016 together.
Children from Key Stage 1 led the Mass with wonderful reading, acting and singing.
During Mass we also though about the two new Jesuit Values that we are focussing on this term – Compassion and Loving. Key Stage 1 included these values in the readings and created a lovely display in front of the altar too.
Dog's Trust Workshop
Emily talking to the children in Year 4.
7 January 2016
On Thursday 7th January, Emily from Dog’s Trust came into school to talk to the children about staying safe around dogs and what dogs need to be happy and healthy.
Emily visited all of the classes from Nursery to Year 6 and the children really enjoyed her visit.
Epiphany Assembly
The Wise Men being placed in the stable.
6 January 2016
On Wednesday 6th January we held a special assembly to celebrate Epiphany – when the Wise Men arrived in Bethlehem to present their gifts to Jesus.
The assembly allowed us to complete the Nativity scene in the hall with children placing the three Wise Men and their gifts in the stable.
Carols Around the Tree
Our school carol service.
18 December 2015
On Friday 18th December St Joseph’s gathered together for a special carol service in school.
The children read the story of the Nativity beautifully and the whole school sang lovely Christmas songs and hymns together.
Completed Jesse Tree
Our lovely Jesse Tree.
18 December 2015
On Friday 18th December during our special carol service we completed our journey through Advent together by hanging the final symbol of the Nativity of the Jesse Tree.
The Jesse Tree looks a little different from the start of Advent and is now full of symbols and reminders of Jesus’ ancestors.
Key Stage 2 Spelling Raffle Winners
Our lucky spelling winners this half term.
18 December 2015
On Friday 18th December the Key Stage 2 spelling raffle was drawn and the winners received their £5 Tesco Voucher.
Each week children from Years 3, 4, 5 and 6 are given ten spellings to learn (personalised to each child’s ability). The following week the children are given a spelling test on the words that they have been learning and if they get 10/10 they are given a raffle ticket to put in the Spelling Jar.
Each half term winners are drawn from the Spelling Jar and they win a £5 voucher to spend at Tesco.
House Cup Winners - Truth
Our Truth House Captain with the House Cup.
18 December 2015
On Friday 18th December the House Cup winners were announced in our merit assembly.
This term the houses had been very close, each earning well over 4,000 house points! However, it was Truth who won the House Cup this term.
Well done Truth!
Choir Sing in Assembly
Our choir – complete with reindeer antlers – singing in assembly.
18 December 2015
On Friday 18th December the whole of St Joseph’s Choir performing in the morning merit assembly.
The children sang Christmas songs which they had been learning in their choir after school sessions.
The singing was excellent and got everyone into the Christmas spirit.
Nativity and Carol Service
Performing the Nativity at the Carol Service.
17 December 2015
On the evening of Thursday 17th December St Joseph’s performed the Nativity during the school’s carol service in the church of Our Blessed Lady and St Thomas of Canterbury.
It was a lovely evening, with fantastic acting, reading and singing from the choir.
Choir Sing at the Station Hotel
Some of our choir singing at the Station Hotel in Dudley.
16 December 2015
On Wednesday 16th December some of the children from St Joseph’s Choir visited the Station Hotel in Dudley to sing for the Parishioners Christmas Lunch.
They sang beautifully and made the Christmas lunch extra special!
Tin Collection for The Good Shepherd
A lovely display of the tins we collected.
16 December 2015
On Wednesday 16th December during Advent, St Joseph’s children and their families very kindly brought in lots of tins and packets from home to send to The Good Shepherd in Wolverhampton.
The Good Shepherd uses the tins to either give to people who need food or to cook themselves to feed people who need food and shelter – especially important during the cold weather.
Thank you to all of our families for their kind donations.
A Visit from Father Christmas
Some of our children with Father Christmas.
16 December 2015
On Wednesday 16th December St Joseph’s had a very special visitor – Father Christmas!
Father Christmas popped into school to deliver presents to all of the children for being so good this year and working so hard.
Key Stage 1 Nativity
Key Stage 1 children at the start of their play.
14 December 2015
On Monday 14th December the children from Key Stage 1 shared their Nativity Play with their parents and families when they performed both in the afternoon and in the evening.
The children acted and sang beautifully and we are very proud of them.
Choir Sing at Tesco
Some of our young choir members at Tesco.
11 December 2015
On Friday 11th December some of the children from St Joseph’s Choir walked to Tesco to sing some Christmas songs for the shoppers and raise some money for charity.
The children sang beautifully and brought a bit of Christmas spirit to the busy Tesco shoppers!
Year 3's Assembly on Cinderella
Year 3 re-telling the story of Cinderella.
11 December 2015
On Friday 11th December Year 3 shared their assembly with the school and their parents.
The children told the story of Cinderella to highlight the human rights that every child is entitled too and the fact that although the story of Cinderella ended happily, Cinderella was actually denied many of her human rights.
Reception and Nursery (PM) Nativity
Reception and Afternoon Nursery children sharing their play.
10 December 2015
On Thursday 10th December children from Reception and afternoon Nursery shared their Christmas Nativity play with their parents and families.
The children re-told the Nativity story beautifully and we are very proud of all of the children.
Reception and Nursery (AM) Nativity
Reception and Morning Nursery children sharing their play.
10 December 2015
On Thursday 10th December children from Reception and morning Nursery shared their Christmas Nativity play with their parents and families.
The children did a great job of retelling the Christmas story and we are very proud of them!
Key Stage 2 Nativity Play
Key Stage 2's Nativity play.
9 December 2015
On Wednesday 9th December children from Key Stage 2 shared their Christmas Nativity Play with their parents and families.
Year 6 children did a fantastic job as the actors and the children from Years 3, 4 and 5 did an amazing job of singing in the choir.
The Year of Mercy
Gathering together on the first day of the Jubilee Year of Mercy.
8 December 2015
On Tuesday 8th December St Joseph’s gathered together to listen to the words of the Archbishop on the first day of the Jubilee Year of Mercy.
The children all gathered in the hall to watch a special powerpoint and video which launched the very special Year.
During the Jubilee Year of Mercy all of the children will be taking part in special visits and events.
The Choir Sing at Russell’s Hall Hospital
The choir singing at Russell’s Hall.
4 December 2015
On Friday 4th December some of the children from our choir visited Russell’s Hall Hospital to sing some Christmas songs.
The choir sounded fantastic and brought a bit of festive cheer to the hospital whilst raising money for charity too!
Our Jesse Tree Advent Tradition
The start of our Jesse Tree this Advent.
1 December 2015
On Tuesday 1st December we began our Advent tradition of the Jesse Tree.
All though Advent each of the teachers take it in turns to deliver an assembly which focuses on the ancestors of Jesus – beginning with Creation and Adam and Eve all the way through the to birth of Jesus. Following each assembly a special symbol is hung upon the tree in the hall to remind us of each ancestor.
As you can see in the photo, the Jesse tree looks very bare at the moment, but in a few weeks it will be full of special symbols.
Year 5 at Aston Hall
Year 5 children on their trip.
27 November 2015
On Friday 27th November Year 5 visited Aston Hall as part of their work in History.
The children had a great time taking part in a wide range of activities and learned lots to support their topic knowledge.
Zog Learning Celebration
Year 2 presenting their learning.
27 November 2015
On Friday 27th November, Year 2 presented some of their English work to their parents.
This term they have been working on and around the story of Zog. They had great fun acting out the story and reading some of the next episodes of the story that they had written.
Our parents really enjoyed our Learning Celebration.
Year 4 at Sarehole Mill
Some of the children completing a River Study.
27 November 2015
On Friday 27th November Year 4 went on a trip to Sarehole Mill in Birmingham as part of their topic and science work.
The children had a lovely day and learned lots about rivers and their features.
Working with the RSPB
Some of our children on their bug hunt.
26 November 2015
On Wednesday 26th November children from Years 1, 2 and 3 were lucky enough to work with Lucy from the RSPB.
The children took part in a workshop in the classroom and then went outside into the school grounds to complete a mini beast hunt.
The children learned lots about mini beast and habitats whilst having a great time too!
Bikeability
One of the badges the children received for taking part.
25 and 26 November 2015
On Wednesday 25th and Thursday 26th November Years 4 and 6 took part in Bikeabiility. Bikeability is a programme delivered to teach children how to be safe when riding their bikes.
Year 4 children worked on skills on the playgroup, as did Year 6, then Year 6 progressed onto going out onto the road and putting their skills into action.
The Islamic Experience
The children enjoyed dressing up too!
24 November 2015
On Tuesday 24th November Years 5 and 6 went to visit the Islamic experience in Birmingham as part of our schools Brilliant to be in Britain week.
The children had a lovely time and really enjoyed learning lots about what Muslims believe.
Year 2's Assembly on Daniel and the Lion
Year 2 ready to perform their assembly.
20 November 2015
On Friday 20th November Year 2 shared their learning about Daniel and the Lion with the rest of the school and their parents in their assembly.
The children read and acted beautifully and everyone was very proud of them.
Year 2 at the Black Country Museum
Year 2 listening very carefully in one of the old houses.
18 November 2015
On Wednesday 18th November Year 2 went on a trip to the Black Country Museum.
The children enjoyed learning lots about the past and talking the staff at the Museum.
The chidren had a wonderful day and learned lots!
Reception visit Tesco's
Reception class trying some of the fruit and vegetables.
18 November 2015
On Wednesday 18th November Reception class visited our local Tesco Store.
Reception class got to try lots of different food and Tesco very kindly donated lots of free vegetables for the children to make healthy pizzas back at school.
Year 4's Creative Curriculum Week
Some of our children dressed in costumes for the role play.
16 November 2015
During the week beginning Monday 16th November Year 4 working with students from Newman College in a Creative Curriculum week.
The children worked with the students to create costumes, resources and to make a film based on events from history.
The children had a fantastic time and we are very grateful to the students for working so hard with our children during the week.
Year 4 Make Tray Bakes
Year 4 making their tray bake.
16 November 2015
On Monday 16th November Year 4 took part in a cooking lesson with Mrs Skelding and Miss Sibley.
Year 4 got very much into an early festive spirit by baking a Cranberry and Cinnamon tray bake – which tasted delicious!
Year 2 Make Apple Juice
Cheers, Year 2!
16 November 2015
On Monday 16th November Nursery and Year 2 children working with Guy from the eZone to make their very own apple juice.
The children pressed apples to make their special juice – which tasted wonderful!
Reception's Superhero Day
Look at all our wonderful superheroes!
6 November 2015
On Friday 6th November Reception class held a superhero dress up day.
The children dressed up as famous superheroes and solved lots of superhero problems in their lessons!
Jesuit Values Assembly
Being attentive during our assembly.
4 November 2015
On 4th November we held an assembly to introduce our new Jesuit Values - being Attentive and Discerning.
To show the value of being attentive children completed a role play to show how to listen, pay attention, be reflective and follow Jesus’ teachings.
To introduce being discerning we watched The Good Samaritan video and talked about how the Samaritan made good choices and discerned well.
Poppy Appeal
Year 6 being helped by Miss Conlon to sell snappy rulers, wristbands, pencils, rubbers and Poppies.
4 November 2015
On Wednesday 4th November children from Year 6 started to sell lots of exciting items in support of the British Legion’s Poppy Appeal.
Children took flyers home yesterday to share with parents what items were for sale and today children have been buying lots of things to support the Appeal – snappy rulers are a big hit.
Year 6 Mass
Year 6’s prayer display.
20 October 2015
On Tuesday 20th October the children from Year 6 prepared Mass for the school. The theme of the Mass was to be ready for Jesus.
Year 6 also created a beautiful altar display and reminded us throughout the Mass of the Jesuit Values of being Grateful and Generous that we are our focus this half term.
Following Mass the children from Year 6 were given the opportunity to go to Confession with Father in the Group Room, which also had a beautiful prayer display and gentle music.
Reception's Maths Parents' Workshop
Some of our parents working with their children.
19 October 2015
On Monday 19th October Reception Class held a parent workshop where parents are invited into school to take part in a lesson with their child.
Today the workshop was a maths parent workshop where children were learning to recognise numbers, count carefully and add objects to find a total.
Road Safety Assembly
PCSO Deb Hancox talking to the children in assembly.
15 October 2015
On Thursday 15th October St Joseph’s held a Road Safety Assembly.
PC Becky Owens and PCSO Deb Hancox came into school to talk to the children about how to be safe when out in cars, on their bikes or when they are walking to and from school.
The PCs also gave advice to the children about how to stay safe on Bonfire Night.
Key Stage 1's Faith Mass
The beautiful display in front of the altar.
13 October 2015
On Tuesday 13th October Key Stage 1 prepared a special Mass to share with all the school, Parish and their parents. The theme of the Mass was Faith and how it is important to have faith in God.
The children prepared a special display in front of the altar, reminding us of the two Jesuit Values of being grateful and generous that we are focusing on this half term.
Mr May (Acting Headteacher from Bishop Milner Catholic College) also joined us for Mass and he was very impressed with the way the children sang, read, acted and played musical instruments in Mass too.
Year 4 Assembly on World Teacher's Day
Year 4 presenting their assembly.
9 October 2015
On Friday 9th October Year 4 shared their learning about World Teacher’s Day.
The children showed us how God makes the perfect teacher and reminded us of how Jesus is the most important teacher of all. The children also reminded us to be grateful for school and teachers as over 61 million children are unable to attend school.
It was a lovely assembly and the children should feel very proud of themselves.
Year 1 Family Maths Workshops
Everyone worked very hard.
7 and 8 October 2015
On Wednesday 7th and Thursday 8th October children from Year 1 invited their parents in to take part in a Maths lesson. The children were learning how to find the missing number in a number.
The children enjoyed having their parents in the lesson and showing off what they can do!
Early Learning for Safety
The children listened carefully before moving onto a variety of tasks.
1 October 2015
On Thursday 1st October Reception class were visited by ELFS (Early Learning For Safety).
They taught the children how to be safe in school, at home and on the road and gave the children a range of accident prevention strategies.
Harvest Mass
A beautiful display created by Year 4 reminding us to be grateful and generous.
29 September 2015
On Tuesday 29th September Year 4 prepared and shared a special Harvest Mass.
The Mass encouraged us to think about the two Jesuit values of being grateful and generous which we are focusing on this half term.
Harvest Collection
The tins donated by the children and their families.
28 and 29 September 2015
On Monday 28th and Tuesday 29th September the children at St Joseph’s very kindly donated tins of food for our Harvest Mass.
The tins of food are to be donated to The Good Shepherd in Wolverhampton to help people less fortunate than ourselves.
We were very lucky to be joined by Judith from The Good Shepherd Appeal for Mass and afterwards she told all of the children what would happen to the tins of food that they had donated and the work that The Good Shepherd does to help others.
Macmillan Coffee Morning
Our Macmillan Coffee Morning.
25 September 2015
On Friday 25th September St Joseph’s hosted a MacMillan Coffee Morning for parents.
The children form Years 4, 5 and 6 spent Thursday cooking and preparing a variety of cakes to sell at the coffee morning – they were delicious! We were also very lucky to have so many cakes donated by parents too.
The children from Year 6 helped to run the event and altogether we raised £220.
Year 2 at Dudley Museum
The children learning about dinosaurs.
23 September 2015
On Wednesday 23rd September Year 2 visited Dudley Museum to take part in a workshop and look at the dinosaur exhibition.
The children had a lovely time and leaned lots about dinosaurs too.
Science Assembly
Our science assembly.
23 September 2015
On Wednesday 23rd September St Joseph’s welcomed a Professor from Warwick University.
The Professor demonstrated some wonderful science experiments to the children in assembly – some of which were very loud!
Year 5 in the School Garden
The children working with George.
20 September 2015
During September Pupils from Year 5 have been lucky enough to work with George Mealy in our new school garden.
George has been advising the children about what to plant and grow in our new garden so that we can grow fruit and vegetables to use in our weekly cookery lessons.
The children valued George’s advise and are looking forward to a good harvest soon.
Year 6 IMPS Session
Children listening carefully about what to do in an emergency.
17 September 2015
On Thursday 17th September Year 6 took part in an IMPS session learning about how to stay safe and also what to do if someone was hurt.
The children learned how to help someone who might be choking or injured. The session was enjoyable and informative and the children were a credit to the school.
Year 5's Guitar Lessons
Year 5 learning to play guitars.
15 September 2015
On Tuesday 15th September Year 5 began their guitar lessons.
The children were very excited to be learning a new instrument in school and have already shown they are great performers.
Year 1 and 2 Recorder Lessons
Children with their recorders..
14 September 2015
On Monday 14th September Year 1 and 2 began their weekly recorder lessons.
The children all enjoyed their first lesson and learning the notes that they could play on the recorder.
God Save the Queen
Our youngest children enjoying the special celebratory disco.
10 September 2015
On Thursday 10th September St Joseph’s celebrated the Queen becoming the longest reigning monarch.
Throughout the week the children in all of the classes have been learning about the Queen and the Monarchy and were treated to a non-uniform red white and blue day and disco on Thursday!
Everyone had a great time – especially singing our national anthem.
Year 4 Experiments at Warwick University
Year 4 in the new lab.
9 September 2015
On Wednesday 9th September Year 4 visited Warwick University's Chemistry Department to conduct some experiments with the Phd students, christening their £1.5 million purpose built lab.
Our Lady's Birthday
The statue of Our Lady beautifully decorated with flowers for her birthday.
8 September 2015
On Tuesday 8th September we celebrated Our Lady’s birthday.
The children were invited to bring in flowers for Mary to decorate the statue in the hall for a special assembly. The donations of flowers were overwhelming and the hall looked beautiful.
Following the assembly some of the flowers were taken to each classroom to be placed on the class altars next to Mary.
A big thank you to our families for their very kind donations.
