Newsletter - October 2023

Dear all,

As our first term draws to a close, I would like to take a moment to reflect on what has been an exceptional term. Our school community has continued to thrive, with every student and staff member showing dedication, kindness, and resilience.

We’ve had a busy and wonderful first term, filled with many activities, especially to celebrate the Advent season. Highlights include a delightful Christmas dinner, a beautiful Christmas concert, and our annual Senior Citizens Afternoon Tea Party. It’s been a time of joy and togetherness, and we are grateful for all the memories we've created.

I would like to extend my heartfelt thanks for your generous hamper donations. Your support will have a real and meaningful impact on the food bank, especially during this time of year when donations are so crucial to those less fortunate.

The holiday season offers a wonderful opportunity to pause, spend time with loved ones, and recharge for the new year. I hope that each of you enjoys a well-deserved break filled with warmth, joy, and laughter. Let us also remember the spirit of giving and sharing that Christmas embodies and continue to spread kindness and positivity within our community.

On behalf of the entire school team, I would like to wish you all a very Happy Christmas and a Happy New Year. I look forward to welcoming you all back in the new year, ready for another exciting term ahead. May 2025 bring you lots of love, luck, and happiness.

Best Wishes

Ms. F. McCloskey

Christmas at our school is a special time to come together in charity, celebration, and unity as we embrace this important liturgical season in the Catholic Church.

This term, students and staff came together to set up the Christmas tree and Nativity scene in the reception area, creating a beautiful centrepiece that embodies the joyful spirit of the season.

Additionally, our students demonstrated remarkable creativity and dedication during the Christmas Card Competition. Congratulations to Alisha for securing 1st place and Martyna for taking 2nd place. A big well done to all participants for their excellent efforts!

We have continued the tradition of our Advent Assemblies, where staff and students join in prayer, and a student lights an Advent candle to reflect on peace around the world. These gatherings remind us of the significance of Advent and its message of hope and preparation.

Our Christmas Concert was another highlight of the season.

Congratulations to the pupils who read and performed, delivering wonderful Christmas songs in style. It was an enchanting evening thoroughly enjoyed by everyone who attended. Finally, students from all year groups came together to enjoy a festive Christmas lunch. A perfect way to celebrate as a community.

Why do you love working at The Douay Martyrs School?

I love working at the Douay Martyrs School because it has an exceptionally supportive environment, which puts professional development and collaborative working at the forefront. Both staff and students have a very strong sense of community which is celebrated at various points throughout the year.

Tell us about your educational qualifications and work experience

I studied history at Southampton University and completed my PGCE at Nottingham University.

What interests or hobbies keep you busy outside the classroom?

I love travelling, going to the theatre and trying new foods from around the world.

Your top tip to parents to support their children during the academic year

Encourage your child to get involved in enrichment activities, and show appreciation for their achievements, whether great or small, as this can help boost their confidence. Help them get into a regular homework routine.

We are currently seeking a dedicated and compassionate individual to join our team as a Full-Time/Part-Time School Chaplain. This is a permanent role following the retirement of our beloved Chaplain, who has served the school faithfully for 22 years.

The School Chaplain plays a vital role in supporting the spiritual and pastoral care of all members of our school community. Working closely with the Headteacher, the Chaplain will be instrumental in leading and nurturing the Catholic life, faith formation, and liturgical practices at The Douay Martyrs School.

This role is open to both ordained and lay candidates and aligns with the National Standards for School Chaplains.

For more details on how to apply please visit the school website or click on the link below. Join us in shaping the future of education at The Douay Martyrs Catholic Secondary School. We look forward to welcoming passionate individuals to our team.

Start your journey to becoming an exceptional teacher with the Diocese of Westminster Academy Trust (DoWAT) and St Mary’s University. Together, we offer an outstanding Initial Teacher Training program that combines hands-on classroom experience with dynamic university-led lectures.

Are you looking to make a difference in your local area? Explore a variety of volunteering opportunities with charities and charitable projects near you. Whether you’re passionate about supporting your community or eager to share your skills, there’s a role for you.

Monday 6th January: Staff Inset Day (School closed to students)

Tuesday 7th January: Start of Spring Term

Thursday 9th January: School closes at 2pm & Year 11 Parents Evening

Tuesday 7th - Wednesday 15th January: Year 10 and 12 PPE Exams

Tuesday 21st January: School closes at 2pm and Year 13 Parents Evening

Wednesday 22nd - Friday 24th January: School Production - Bugsy Malone The Musical 19:00pm-21:00pm.

“For God so loved the world, that he gave his only son, so that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life. For God did not send his son into the world to be its judge, but to be its saviour.” (John 3: 16-17)