This morning Year 6 led us in a beautiful mass to welcome the new Reception children, and their families, into our School/Parish community. They had written some beautiful reflections to let them know what they can expect from their time at Holy Redeemer, and presented the Reception children with items to symbolise what they will gain. The Year 6 supported the Reception children to bring these items to the altar, and rest of the School and Parish helped to make the mass even more special with their fantastic singing. 

At the end of the mass Father Amal presented our new Reception children with certificates of welcome.

Thank you to Father Amal, and to everyone who helped to make the mass such a joyful and special occasion. It was a wonderful example of us living out our Catholic Social Teaching element of ‘Family and Community.

This is what Year 6 wrote in their RE lessons, and read out during the mass:

• We give you a Bible. Over the next 7 years you will read lots of stories from the Bible and the Word of God will teach you how you should live your life and especially how you should treat other people.
• We give you the circle of friends. We know you will make wonderful friends who will help you on your journey.
• We give you a book. You will have lots of opportunities to enjoy reading and will develop a love of books.
• We give you a ball. You will get the opportunity to become great sports people; some of you may compete at very high levels but you will all participate in lots of sport and learn the importance of teamwork and resilience.
• We give you a musical instrument. You can learn to play a musical instrument, join the school band and become a member of the choir. You will also take part in lots of performances.
• We give you a paintbrush. You will have many opportunities to develop your creativity and imagination.
• We give you an ipad. You will learn how to use modern technology safely.
• We give you a Building Learning Power certificate: You will learn lots of good learning skills at Holy Redeemer and become resilient, resourceful and reflective learners
• We give you some seeds. You will enjoy working in the eco garden with Bob and Val. You will learn to look after the environment and grow your own food.
• We give you a globe. We all belong to the family of God and you will have many opportunities to support those who are in need around the world. You will also learn about our links with the school in South Africa and
• We give you our School Virtues. These are the values which you will try to live every day. At Holy Redeemer we try to be grateful, generous and kind children who care about others.
• We give you our Mission Statement.  You will grow in Faith and love, through your relationship with Jesus, and will become great people who make a difference in our world.

Reception class, we are very happy that you have joined our community at Holy Redeemer. The community gathered here promise to help you and support you in any way we can, over the coming 7 years.