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SJS REVIEW

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Issue III | Autumn 25

ISSUE III

AUTUMN 2025

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ISSUE III

AUTUMN 2025

CONTENTS 02

CEO Foreword

St Joseph’s Catholic Primary School Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea

Message from the Lay Chaplain

St Joseph's Catholic Primary School City of Westminster

Catholic Life

Our Lady of Victories Catholic Primary School Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea

St Augustine’s Catholic Primary School London Borough of Hammersmith and Fulham

St Thomas More Language College Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea

The Cardinal Vaughan Memorial School Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea

Opportunities at SJSCAT

St John XXIII Catholic Primary School London Borough of Hammersmith and Fulham

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CEO FOREWORD This term, the longest of the year, always begins and ends with a sense of disbelief: first that the long and restful summer is actually over, and second that Christmas is upon us. Where did the time go, we ask ourselves. The fact is, of course, that time truly does fly – especially when we keep ourselves busy, as can be seen from even the most cursory perusal of this newsletter. It makes clear the myriad activities in which all our seven schools have been involved. These range from geography river trips and squash lessons to visiting the European Parliament and providing help for a school for children with special educational needs in the occupied West Bank – to name but a few. Such activity goes over and above the core requirements of any school and is a heartening reflection of the mission statement of the Saint John Southworth Catholic Academy Trust, which, like all good mission statements, can (and indeed should) be reduced to as few words as possible – in our case ten. Very simply, our schools exist to ‘work for the formation and achievement of all their pupils’. So we are living out our mission. We are keeping busy, working as hard as we can to help all 2,700 of our pupils become the best possible version of themselves that they can be. We are also, in a deeper sense, as we are called to do in this season of Advent, staying awake and preparing for the arrival of Our Lord. At the risk of stating the obvious, busy people need to be awake. So I wish you all a happy and peaceful Christmas, when we will have the time to reflect on the joy of this season and the fulfilment of the promise of God to send a saviour by the birth of Jesus. Have a wonderful and well-deserved break. Paul Stubbings Catholic Executive Officer

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MESSAGE FROM THE LAY CHAPLAIN What a blessed and grace-filled term we have shared. As we returned to school in September, pupils and staff settled readily into their classrooms, shaping the contours of what the year may bring. This has been a season of welcome for those joining the Saint John Southworth Catholic Academy Trust, and a time of transition for pupils moving from primary to secondary or from secondary into Sixth Form. Each change has carried with it the promise of a fresh beginning, a new academic year still illuminated by the Hope of the Jubilee.

In this holy season of Advent, we prepare our hearts for the coming of our Saviour. Let us ask our patron, Saint John Southworth, to pray for us, so that the peace of Christ may radiate in our communities. He who served tirelessly in the challenging times of the Reformation, always returning to his duties and faithfully delivering the sacraments of the Catholic Church, is an example that encourages us to stand firm and to serve our brothers and sisters with perseverance. As this Jubilee Year draws to a close at the Feast of the Epiphany, may we pause to reflect on the graces we have received and how we have been transformed to live our dignity as children of God. The Eucharistic Prayer heard during Mass reminds us that “it is right and just, our duty and our salvation, always and everywhere to give God thanks.” Let us treasure, in the silence of our hearts, the countless blessings God bestows upon us, offering our gratitude before the Nativity crib, and renewing our Hope in the promise of Eternal Life.

Across our schools, pupil chaplaincy teams have gathered once again, enriched by new faces and strengthened by the dedication of returning members. As young leaders of faith, they have used their gifts generously to make Christ present in the life of their school communities. I have been deeply moved by their reverence while praying the Rosary throughout October. Many shared their knowledge of this devotion and pondered Christ’s life through the Rosary mysteries with great love, while others eagerly learned even more about the history and development of the Rosary from the early centuries of the Church. Their enthusiasm is a beautiful witness to the living faith of our young people.

May the peace of the Holy Infant fill your homes and hearts this Christmas, and may the New Year bring renewed faith, joy, and every blessing.

Parents and carers have also continued to gather, remotely but wholeheartedly, on the First Fridays of each month. In prayer, they have supported one another, reflected on the Gospel, and interceded for pupils, staff, families, and governors. These moments of shared prayer remind us of the heart of our Academy Trust, the loving Heart of Jesus, who unites and sustains us as one family of schools.

Caroline Moulinet SJSCAT Lay Chaplain

This unity in Christ allows each school to flourish in its own unique character, being a vital part of the Body of Christ. Our Trust motto, Omnia in Uno, Everything in One, invites us to learn from one another and to carry the Good News into every aspect of our communities. This term, some schools have launched Saint Vincent de Paul Society groups, others have offered a retreat day for each of their year groups, and many have come together to share Jubilee activities, nurturing the flame of Hope among pupils. Now that December has come, fantastic voices have risen in song and celebration as Nativity plays and Christmas carol concerts have come to life, reminding us that Jesus, fully God and fully man, is drawing near, waiting for our hearts to welcome Him.

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CATHOLIC LIFE The Autumn term across the Saint John Southworth Catholic Academy Trust has been a joyful and faith-filled beginning to the Jubilee Year of Hope. Pupils and staff have reflected on themes of mercy, renewal, and hope through prayer, collective worship, and daily life across our schools. A key highlight this term has been the introduction of Pupil Chaplaincy Teams, who have played an active role in leading worship and supporting the spiritual life of their school communities. Across the Trust, pupils have also taken part in Jubilee-themed activities, rosary clubs, and retreat opportunities, all of which have helped deepen prayer, reflection, and a sense of shared faith. As the Autumn term drew to a close, schools across the Trust marked Advent and Christmas through nativities and carol services that reflected the richness of our Catholic tradition. These occasions created opportunities for shared worship and reflection, strengthening the bonds between our schools, families, and parish communities.

PUPIL CHAPLAINCY TEAMS Across the Saint John Southworth Trust, our new Pupil Chaplaincy Teams are already getting stuck into their roles, helping to support the spiritual life of their schools with real enthusiasm. They have begun leading prayer and collective worship, assisting with liturgies, and contributing to displays and activities that highlight our Catholic Social Teaching and this year’s Jubilee theme, Pilgrims of Hope. Their dedication is already making a noticeable impact, helping to nurture welcoming, faith-filled school communities across the Trust. We are excited to see their leadership continue to grow as the year unfolds.

JUBILEE YEAR OF HOPE

THE SEASON OF ADVENT

This term, Pupil Chaplaincy Teams from Our Lady of Victories, St Joseph's Maida Vale, and St Joseph's Chelsea worked together for a carousel of Jubilee activities focused on the theme of hope.

Nativities and carol services took place across the Trust during the final weeks of term, bringing pupils, staff, families, and parish communities together in joyful celebration.

The children prayed, collaborated, and supported one another throughout the session. Caroline Moulinet, the Trust’s Lay Chaplain, led prayers to open and close the activities, making it a wonderful time of friendship, faith, and togetherness.

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Through prayer and music, pupils shared the story of Christ’s birth with reverence and confidence, helping to mark the season of Advent and Christmas in a meaningful way. These celebrations provided a fitting conclusion to the term, reinforcing the message of hope, peace, and love at the heart of the Christmas story.

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ST AUGUSTINE’S This term at St Augustine’s has been full of learning, sport, and new experiences for our pupils. There has been a wide range of exciting trips for pupils to enjoy. Year 1 visited the Science Museum, while Year 6 attended a World War II art exhibition at Fulham Library by Clive Cobb. Pupils also enjoyed opportunities in school, including a pantomime performance of Cinderella and a visit from author Rebecca Lewis-Oakes. Sport has also played a strong role this term, with many opportunities and successes. Our Year 5 pupils have continued their squash lessons at the Queen’s Club, developing their skills, confidence, and teamwork on court. In addition, both the boys’ and girls’ football teams have made a fantastic 100% winning start to the Mayor’s Cup competition, showing great determination and pride in representing the school. We look forward to another term of growth, achievement, and teamwork for our pupils.

CAROL SINGING AT QUEEN’S CLUB Our choir was delighted to be invited to perform at the Queen’s Club Members’ Christmas Dinner and fundraiser this term.

AUTHOR VISIT

SQUASH ROUND-UP

We were delighted to welcome visiting author Rebecca LewisOakes to St Augustine’s this term.

This term, our Year 5 pupils have had the opportunity to play squash at The Queen’s Club with expert coaching.

She spoke to the children about the world of creative writing, sharing insights into her own journey as an author and what daily life in her profession looks like.

Each week, their confidence has grown, their skills have sharpened, and their teamwork has shone through.

It was a wonderful experience that sparked excitement across the school and encouraged our young writers to develop their own creative voices.

It has been a fantastic experience for the children as they have begun to learn a new sport and challenge themselves. We are so proud of how hard they have worked and how much progress they have made.

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It was a wonderful opportunity for the children to share their hard work and spread some festive cheer in such a special setting. Mr Bain also joined in for part of the performance, much to the children’s excitement! In addition to the evening event, the choir later returned to sing for members as they arrived at the club, creating a warm and joyful atmosphere to start the day.

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CARDINAL VAUGHAN This term, pupils have taken part in a wide range of enriching activities that brought their learning to life. Sixth Form pupils attended the PolEconUK conference, a Royal Geographical Society lecture and a performance of Euripides’ Bacchae. Lower School pupils enjoyed a LAMDA workshop on Macbeth, a careers visit to ITV Studios and a trip to Kew Gardens to explore weather and climate. There have been many achievements to celebrate too. A Sixth Form team won the Imperial Science in Medicine competition, and the Senior Maths Challenge results were outstanding, with several pupils reaching the finals. It has also been a lively term for performance and music, from the Schola Cantorum’s concerts to the Lower School production, which you can read more about below. Alongside this, our community has continued to come together in faith and service. We continued to support the School of Joy, marked Red Wednesday with a special Mass with Bishop Jim Curry, and celebrated the blessing of the Chapel.

PERFORMANCE HIGHLIGHTS This term has been full of outstanding musical and theatrical performances. The Schola took part in an extraordinary collaboration with Icelandic rock group Sigur Rós at the Royal Albert Hall, performed Handel’s Messiah at Our Lady of Victories Church and Douai Abbey and much more! Lower School pupils brought festive cheer with their production of A Christmas Carol, a heart-warming tale of hope and redemption. Audiences were also treated to a special screening of Raymond Briggs’ The Snowman with live orchestral accompaniment by the musicians of the Vaughan.

SUPPORTING THE SCHOOL OF JOY

SPORT AT THE VAUGHAN

This term, Father Mamdouh Abasada visited our Upper Sixth to share the story of the School of Joy in Bethlehem, which he established to support children with additional needs. He inspired our pupils to put faith into action.

This term has been full of sporting achievements, with all pupils representing the school with pride, enthusiasm and teamwork.

Following his visit, our Youth SVP group hosted a charity sale, showcasing handcrafted gifts made by the pupils of the School of Joy. The event was a wonderful success, with our community celebrating the spirit of giving.

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More than 25 members of our community took part in the Ealing Half Marathon, raising over £2,700 for the Love and Service Fund. The 1st XV rugby team finished third overall in the Middlesex Plate, while our largest ever sports tour saw 68 pupils travel to Dubai, where they delivered strong performances on the field.

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ST JOHN XXIII This term at St John XXIII has been full of exciting events and celebrations. Pupils enjoyed trips to The Science Museum, The Lyric Christmas Pantomime, the Royal College of Music, and took part in workshops such as Drama4All. We celebrated special occasions including our 60th Anniversary Mass, the Mass for the Feast of St John XXIII, Black History Month performance, and Advent Mass. Pupils also participated in sporting events such as the Year 4 Swimming Gala and the QPR Girls Football Tournament, and joined in the festive fun of Christmas Funday. It has been a wonderful term, and we are grateful to our pupils, families, and staff for their support and enthusiasm.

60 YEARS OF ST JOHN XXIII This term, our school community marked two special occasions in honour of St John XXIII.

EXPERIENCE DAYS

BLACK HISTORY PERFORMANCE

This term, Years 3 and 4 enjoyed immersive history days.

On Thursday October 23, our school hall was filled with families, friends, and staff for our Black History Month performance.

Year 3 stepped back to the Stone Age, creating paper and biscuit models of Stonehenge, which they later demolished. Year 4 explored the Vikings, practising runes, designing shields, building longboats, and taking part in games such as foam javelin “spear throwing.” Both days brought history to life, giving pupils a hands-on way to explore the past.

Pupils showcased their talent and creativity through energetic dances, heartfelt songs, and powerful speeches inspired by influential figures in Black history. The evening concluded with our colourful carnival parade, bringing music, laughter, and vibrant costumes to a joyful finale.

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On September 11, we celebrated the school’s 60th anniversary with a Mass led by Bishop Jim Curry, followed by refreshments and activities in classrooms. A highlight was hearing an extract from the original 1965 log book, offering a glimpse into our history. On October 10, Year 5 led our feast day Mass, with readings and choir singing creating a reflective and uplifting celebration. We were delighted to welcome so many parents to join us. Both events were wonderful opportunities to celebrate our shared faith, history and values.

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ST JOSEPH’S, CHELSEA The Autumn term is always an exciting time of new beginnings and getting into the rhythm of school life for the year ahead. Children across the school have settled into their new classes well and new children and families to St Joseph's have been given a warm welcome. The PTFA organised a wonderful International Food Fair which was a great celebration of the life at St Joseph's and the many cultures represented here. The PTFA also organised a lovely Macmillan Coffee Morning which was very well attended and raised valuable funds for this important charity. Alongside reaching for the highest academic standards; we continued to encourage our children to give 'Preferential Option for The Poor.' The Pupil Chaplaincy Team helped to lead on the 'Glass Door' (homeless charity) Harvest donations and many bags of much needed food were donated through the generosity of St Joseph's parents. During the month of Remembrance, we engaged in a range of thoughtful activities, including our special Remembrance Service, which was attended by members of the Royal Hospital Chelsea.

JUBILEE ACTIVITIES The Pupil Chaplaincy Team ran carousel activities linked to the Jubilee Year of Hope, inviting Years 3–6 to take part in the hall. They demonstrated excellent leadership, explaining the activities to their peers and creating a reflective and engaging atmosphere. Pupils drew Windows of Hope and made ‘Hope’ paper chains. Further activities are planned with Pupil Chaplaincy Teams from other schools to continue celebrating the spirit of the Jubilee Year.

BLACK HISTORY MONTH

NATIONAL ARMY MUSEUM TAKEOVER DAY

During Black History Month, Years 1–6 visited the National Army Museum to take part in workshops and learn about the contributions of important historical figures, including Mary Seacole.

Year 6 took part in an exciting project with The National Army Museum.

The school also marked ‘Show Racism the Red Card’ day, with pupils wearing red to show their solidarity with those working for equality and an end to racial discrimination.

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The project culminated in the children ‘taking over’ the museum for the day, experiencing a variety of museum roles and responsibilities. They also took part in creative Art and DT activities, crafting impressive Anderson shelters that were proudly displayed for visitors and Year 6 families to admire.

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ST JOSEPH’S, MAIDA VALE This term at St Joseph’s has been full of inspiring learning and memorable experiences. Pupils have taken part in hands-on workshops, from the Reception class data and problem-solving session to Year 6’s thrilling visit to Winter Wonderland. Our children have also engaged with Jubilee-themed faith activities, including Pupil Chaplaincy initiatives and Pilgrims of Hope experiences, reflecting their growing leadership, creativity, and commitment to living out Gospel values. Across the school, pupils have shown curiosity, enthusiasm, and a strong sense of community, making this term a truly special one.

SPORT-A-THON This term has been full of events and opportunities for students to learn and grow, all as part of our Sport-A-Thon.

CHRISTMAS LIGHTS SWITCH ON

HARVEST FESTIVAL

Children from St Joseph's joined pupils from two other local schools, St Saviour’s and Ark King Solomon Academy, for the Annual Christmas Lights Switch-On in Maida Vale.

This term, we celebrated Harvest Festival with Canon Kevin who led a special Mass in school. Our community was so generous, bringing in an impressive collection of products for those in need.

The Deputy Mayor of Westminster joined local councillor Melvyn Caplan for this special event, where schools and businesses from the community came together.

As well as supporting the local community, the celebration offered a meaningful opportunity for our children to reflect on gratitude, service, and the Catholic values of charity and compassion.

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Highlights included our annual Family Walk, where Year 6 supported younger pupils, and a fun Kids’ Cooking Workshop led by St Joseph’s alumni. Students also took part in a wide range of sporting and wellbeing activities, competitions, and challenges that encouraged teamwork, participation, and school spirit. It has been a fantastic term, and we look forward to more exciting SportA-Thon events soon.

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OUR LADY OF VICTORIES The year has begun with a busy and exciting Autumn term, with pupils taking part in World War II and science workshops, pedestrian and scooter training, ‘Brain Buddies’, and geography river trips. Student leadership has been a particular highlight, with pupils across Key Stage 2 taking on roles to support and lead the school. We congratulate our Year 6 pupils appointed as Head Boy and Head Girl, Deputy Head Boy and Girl, and Prefects. We are also proud to have re-established our pupil chaplaincy team, who are playing a pivotal role in leading the Catholic and prayer life of the school. This term, pupils have been busy planting spring bulbs across the school as part of our commitment to being Stewards of Creation. We look forward to seeing the playgrounds filled with colour and hope in the months ahead.

GIVING DAY Just before half-term, we held our first Giving Day. From dance-a-thons, to read-a-thons, times tables competitions to art challenges, auctions of promises to tug of war and running challenges, everyone took part to support the school. There was tremendous fun to be had and laughter echoed around the school. The tug of war between Year 5 pupils and staff got a bit competitive! A huge thank you to everyone in the school community for their generosity and for making the event such a great success. The money raised for the Be the Best You Can Be Fund will help to refurbish the staircases.

MUSEUM OF DOCKLANDS TRIP

BLACK HISTORY MONTH

Year 6 visited the London Museum of Docklands to learn about the Blitz from an eyewitness perspective.

During Black History Month, pupils took part in activities to explore the focus ‘Standing Firm in Power and Strength’. Thank you to our visitors who ran workshops across the school. Pupils explored the journeys their families had taken as well as enjoy special stories.

Pupils explored photographs, artefacts, and displays, discovering how people evacuated, used different types of shelters, and coped during this challenging period. The visit provided a vivid and engaging insight into the experiences of evacuees and life on the home front.

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The culmination of the month was our Culture Day where everyone dressed to reflect their cultural background. It was a wonderful reminder of the rich diversity that makes up the school.

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ST THOMAS MORE Across the College, students have enjoyed a wide range of trips, workshops, and initiatives this term. Year 7 visited the Tower of London to see the cell of St Thomas More, while Year 8 explored Hampton Court and discovered how the palace reflected the power and wealth of the Royals. Year 10 triple science students attended a STEM careers fair, and pupils also took part in engaging workshops with Life Voice UK. On the sports pitch, it has been another fantastic term. The PE Department elected a new Sports Council, choosing students who embody the College’s core values to promote PE across the school. Interhouse competitions in basketball, football, and other sports have brought the houses together, with students representing their teams with pride and enthusiasm.

INTERNATIONAL EVENING

THE EUROPEAN PARLIMENT AMBASSADOR PROGRAMME

RETREAT DAYS

This term, we had an exciting range of EPAS activities.

We were happy to welcome the Westminster Youth Service, who led a meaningful series of Retreat Days for Years 7–11.

We were lucky to be the only UK school to take part live in Euroscola, asking questions to the European Parliament. Pupils also excelled in the Young Ambassador’s Quiz, began the eTwinning project, visited Europe House to explore culture and careers, and celebrated European Day of Languages with a range of activities and competitions. It has been an exciting time for the school, and we look forward to this continuing.

Each day began with Mass and followed the theme Firm Foundations, reminding our students that when we build our lives on Christ, we can stand strong through anything. Throughout the week, pupils took part in reflection, discussion, guided prayer, and quiet time in the presence of the Blessed Sacrament.

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We were delighted to host our annual International Evening, a highlight of the school calendar and a true reflection of the rich cultural diversity within our school community. Students and parents took to the stage with an impressive range of performances, sharing music, dance and traditions from around the world. Their pride, confidence and talent created a warm and vibrant atmosphere. Families also contributed an incredible selection of dishes, offering a taste of the many cultures that make up our community. The shared meal brought everyone together and added to the welcoming spirit of the event. We are grateful to all students, families and staff who helped make the evening such a success. It was a wonderful celebration of who we are as a community, and we are already looking forward to next year’s event.

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SUPPORT OUR SCHOOLS If you would like to support our schools and pledge to make a regular gift that is transformative to our fundraising campaign, please email development@sjscat.co.uk to discuss options to support the Trust. Thank you in advance consideration of this.

for

your

Support Your School St Augustine’s – Helping Hand Fund Cardinal Vaughan Memorial School – Love and Service Fund St John XXIII – Faith in Our Future Fund St Joseph’s, Chelsea – It Takes a Village Fund St Joseph’s, Maida Vale – Live Life to the Full Fund Our Lady of Victories – To Be the Best We Can Be Fund Saint Thomas More – Giving from the Heart Fund

VACANCIES

TRAIN TO TEACH

Thank you for taking an interest in joining Saint John Southworth Catholic Academy Trust (SJSCAT). We are a Trust in the Archdiocese of Westminster with a strong Catholic ethos, a tradition of outstanding academic outcomes and a strong regard for good behaviour, selfdiscipline and self-improvement among its pupils.

We are currently looking for a wide range of enthusiastic, bright candidates who are excited about the prospect of training to teach! With places in over 22 subjects available, the SJSERA prides itself on providing an environment in which new teachers can flourish, grow, and excel. With dedicated mentors on hand, the courses we offer give you the chance to really get stuck into your first year of training.

If you would like to be part of this vibrant, forward-thinking yet traditional Trust then apply to join our team today. For more information and to show your interest in this role please contact us at teach@sjscat.co.uk. We look forward to hearing from you.

We will be running a series of school experience days and webinars for those who would like to find out more information about the Train to Teach process. You can find more at www.sjscat/SJSERA.co.uk.

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