During its Year of Mission, the children at St John’s Primary Catholic School in Trowbridge have been reflecting on how their actions can change several lives. The children’s mission, created by the Clifton Diocese, has called them to work towards ‘a future full of hope’, something they have decided to follow by supporting an increasing number of local, national and world-wide charities. It is also something that the children say, “Has inspired us all to strengthen and deepen our relationship with God.”
Children of all ages throughout the school have been involved in a wide variety of activities. The school’s Chapel Champions and Sports Council, for example, organised a whole school sponsored run in aid of Julia’s House, a local charity which helps children with illness or special needs. One activity undertaken by children in Year 3 and 4 was a soup run where the children made soup as part of their learning about healthy eating. The wholesome batches were then shared at the local soup run by teachers.
Meanwhile Year 5 and 6 pupils wrote to local MP Andrew Murrison to express their strong feelings about the lone child refugee crisis caused by the war in Syria. They are hoping to spread awareness and inspire those in authority to take action, with Abigail in Year 6, stating, “We want them to have as good an education as we do.”
Throughout their work, the children have learned more about the local charity’s work and what they do to support people. Head teacher Mrs Sessions explained, “I have been truly inspired by the overwhelming enthusiasm and love shown by the whole school community for others.”
Filip and Taonga in Year 5 added, “As a Catholic school we are trying to inspire others as we grow and learn in the footsteps of Jesus.”
Year 5 and 6 created a piece of artwork to capture the whole schools’ efforts during The Year of Mission. They also wrote this article to share their work with the local community and inspire others!