Newsletter - October 2023
Dear Parents and Carers,
As we approach the season of Easter, I would like to take a moment to reflect on the significance of this special time in our Catholic calendar. Easter is a time for renewal, hope, and reflection on the sacrifice and resurrection of our Lord, Jesus Christ. It is a time when we, as a school community, are reminded of the values that bind us together—faith, love, and service.
Throughout this season, our students have engaged in various activities and prayers that help deepen their understanding of the Passion of Christ, the joy of His resurrection, and the meaning of new life in Him. It is always inspiring to witness the children’s enthusiasm for celebrating the Catholic traditions that are at the heart of our school life. Their reflections during assemblies, sacrament of reconciliation and other liturgical events remind us of the strength of our shared faith and the importance of passing this legacy on to future generations.
As Headteacher, I would like to take this opportunity to sincerely thank you for entrusting your children to us. Your support and involvement in the life of the school are vital in helping us nurture the spiritual, intellectual, and emotional development of our students. The partnership between parents and school is crucial in creating an environment where each child can flourish, not only academically but in their faith and character.
The parent survey results:
- 93% of parents believe their children are happy at school
- 99% are proud their child belongs to The Douay Martyrs Catholic Secondary School
- 99% of parents say their child feels safe at school
- 95% feel the school makes sure students are well behaved
- 95% feel The Catholic Ethos of this school is helping my child's personal development
- 95% say that the school dealt with bullying effectively and quickly
- 96% agree that the school has high expectations for their child/children
- 96% feel their child/children do well at this school
The survey is a fantastic indicator of us all working together with the children at the centre. As a school, we are committed to ensuring the whole child is successful in their journey as we walk with them in the challenges they face and support them by offering solutions and guidance through faith. Thank you for the trust you place in our staff, and for allowing us the privilege of playing a role in the formation of your children. We are grateful for the opportunity to guide them on their journey, both in their studies and their faith.
Thank you to all the staff who too have been surveyed; 100% are proud to work in this school. This is a true testament that the teaching and support staff who work in schools are doing so as their true vocation. It also reflects the privilege of teaching and supporting your children, and stands as a tribute to you as families for your unwavering support during a challenging time in life.
As we enter into the joy of the Easter season, I pray that each of you may experience the peace, love, and hope that Christ brings. May this Easter bring renewal and blessings to your families.
With my warmest wishes for a joyful and peaceful Easter,
Best Wishes
Ms. F. McCloskey
At the beginning of this term, we entered into the season of Lent. Our Lenten journey began with Ash Wednesday Services, which were led by Deacon Jason Wingrove and Mr David. It provided us with the opportunity to reflect and examine our consciences, to discern changes we need to make to deepen our relationship with God and each other so that we may strive to become better versions of ourselves as we prepare our hearts to celebrate the Resurrection of Jesus at Easter.
Students across all Year groups received the Sacrament of Reconciliation. We are blessed to have Priests from our local Deanery Parishes come in to administer the Sacrament to our young people.
Our Year 7 Liturgy Champions, prepared and led an Assembly on the Season of Lent, focusing on the importance of the season as well as the three Pillars of Lent, namely Prayer, Fasting and Almsgiving. They did a fantastic job.
As part of our Jubilee Year – Pilgrims of Hope, a group of our young people attended FLAME in Wembley Arena. FLAME is a Catholic Youth event where young people from across the country come together to worship and celebrate their faith together. As part of the day, students heard from inspirational speakers such as Bear Grylls and listened to music from the One Hope Project, World Youth Dance Crew, Lily Jo, Adenike Adewale and Guvna B. It was an enriching experience, and students very much enjoyed the day.
The Fundraising Champions have been busy organising fundraising events for Lent. Years 7 and 8 raised money with their Movie Days. Year 9 students raised money by wearing Purple for Lent. All proceeds will go to CAFOD. Years 10, 11, 12 and 13 collected items to donate to the Hillingdon Foodbank, to support those in need in our local community. May I take this opportunity to wish you all a Blessed and Joyful Easter.
As part of our Lenten Liturgy, students in Years 7 - 13 re-enacted the Passion of our Lord according to St John's Gospel. It was a moment for us to stop and reflect on God's great love for us, demonstrated through the suffering and death of His Son, our Lord Jesus Christ, for the forgiveness of our sins. A huge thank you to all the students who took part, for their commitment, dedication and hard work. They did extremely well.
Flame Trip at OVO Wembley Arena
Our students had an unforgettable time during the Flame trip, celebrating faith with thousands of young people at OVO Wembley Arena. "I really enjoyed going to Flame this year because I could celebrate my faith with others. I am very excited to go back in 2027!" – Jacob
Celebrating Lavinia's Easter Card Design
We’re thrilled to showcase Lavinia's beautiful Easter card, capturing the season’s spirit of faith, renewal, and hope. Her stunning artwork reflects the exceptional talent of our KS3 students. Well done, Lavinia! Keep shining with your creativity!
St. Patrick’s Day at Douay Martyrs
Our Irish community celebrated St. Patrick's Day with music, history, and Barry’s Tea. Check our socials to hear about Róisín’s amazing performance at the Mayor of London’s St. Patrick’s Day festival. We’re so proud. Lá Fhéile Pádraig from Douay Martyrs!
Lent Reflection in Assembly
All year groups reflected on the true meaning of Lent and the importance of almsgiving. Students were also treated to a beautiful performance of Servant King by our talented school choir.
Train to Teach with DoWAT
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.
Discover Volunteering Opportunities in Your Community
