The start to a new school year is always a special time as we welcome pupils and staff back into school. The pupils have made a fantastic start to the new academic year and I have been very pleased with their behaviour and commitment to learning. The Year 7 and 12 pupils have had a positive impact on their new school.
Earlier this term we visited St Francis Church, Stratford to celebrate 150 Years of Catholic Franciscan boys education in Newham. It was fitting to mark such an important anniversary with the celebration of a beautiful Mass. Our tradition and heritage sets us apart from many schools and our history greatly influences the school we are today. We ask for your continued prayers and support as we look forward to our own 150th anniversary in 2027.
Mr C McCormack
Mass to celebrate 150th anniversary of our beginning
Our school community marked the incredible 150th anniversary of our beginning with a mass at St. Francis Church in Stratford on 18th of September.
The Big Hello
Good News Bibles
At a Year 7 extended assembly, the students heard about the history of the Good News Organisation and received the gift of free Bibles, blessed by Br. Vladimir.
Year 7 Violinist, Rohan
A wonderful Grade 4 piece ‘Portsmouth’ played by Rohan in Year 7.
Mrs Clarke-McGhie is so proud to have you in her music class.
Keep up the fantastic playing.
Gold and Bronze medals for Vlad
Our Year 10 student, Vlad, claimed Individual Kumite Gold and Team Kumite Bronze in the World Karate Federation Tournament in Coventry, competing against 600 opponents from over 7 different countries.
St Bon's Football Victory
A Win for St Bons! St Bonaventure's 3-2 Chobham Academy
15 Year 7 students represent St Bon's A-team at Chobham Academy. The students showed great determination and resilience to win 3-2.
This contribution will enable us to directly address the immediate needs of our students, allowing us to purchase essential items such as blazers, trousers, shirts, shoes, and PE kits.
1- What inspired you to become a teacher?
I would say my own teachers inspired me to pursue a career in teaching. Their positive influence and igniting the passion in me to explore and learn new languages. I also felt inspired to share that and foster a love for languages in young people.
2- What is the biggest challenge that students face when transitioning from primary to secondary school?
Adapting to such a big place, getting used to having multiple teachers and all the new systems is definitely challenging. However the biggest challenge has to be losing things and remembering to look after their belongings! Which is why we have a heavy focus on responsibility during the first term.
3- What aspects of St Bons do you believe make it a unique school?
There are many aspects of St Bons that make it unique. However I would say for me it is the sense of family. You hear that word alot here, the love and care that staff and students alike show towards one another is truly special.
4- One key piece of advice to parents of year 7 students in this new academic year
Communication is key. During this period of transition it's crucial to stay connected and engaged in your child's academic journey. Remember, we are a team! This is new to parents also, I am here as Year Leader to address any concerns , offer support and answer any questions. Together we will ensure your child flourishes here.
Here are the top 5 tips on managing anxiety as shared by Chika, an Educational Mental Health Practitioner (EMHP) from St. Bonaventure's.
1. Understand Anxiety
Anxiety is our bodies’ response to anything perceived as fearful or threatening. It becomes a problem when we perceive something as threatening or fearful that may not be and it begins to disrupt our daily life.
2. Talk About It
Talking with your child about their anxiety can help them to process and find the root cause. Be mindful and wait until they are calm before having a conversation about what they may be anxious about. Validating their feelings and offering your support.
3. Practise Mindfulness
Practising mindfulness is a great way to keep calm. Grounding and breathing exercises such as box breathing (breathe in, hold, breathe out, hold – count 4 seconds for each and repeat until they feel calm), or the 5, 4, 3, 2, 1 method are great mindfulness activities.
4. Sleep, Food and Exercise
How well we sleep & eat and our mood have a bidirectional relationship. A solid sleep routine and regular nutritious meals, which fuel our bodies, can help with managing anxiety. Additionally, regular exercise can support your child with their physical symptoms of anxiety.
5. Self-Care
Practising self-care looks different to everyone! This can be anything from doing an activity they enjoy, spending time with friends, exercising or praying.
6. Seek further support
Bonus tip - If you are worried about your child’s well-being seek additional support. There are many websites with information about anxiety and techniques that are helpful to manage it but sometimes a young person may need more support. You can access further support from the MHST or alternatively make an appointment with your GP.
Contact Us
Email: info@stbons.org
Website: https://www.stbons.org/
Location: Boleyn Rd, London E7 9QD, UK
Phone: 020 8472 3844