20 December, 2024
Merry Christmas
From the Headteacher
As the Autumn Term draws to a close, I would like to wish students, staff, families and friends a very Merry Christmas. You know the Christmas story, of course. Gentle Mary. Stoic Joseph. Shepherds in the field abiding. Angels from the realms of glory. This week, we have explored some of the tensions in the nativity:
On one side, powerful Augustus, self-proclaimed Son of God.
On the other side, gentle Jesus, Gospel-proclaimed Son of Adam.
On one side, Mighty Herod, on his throne in Jerusalem.
On the other side, laboured Mary and Jesus, journeying from Nazareth to Bethlehem.
On one side, Roman legions.
On the other, Heavenly hosts.
As we reflect on this story of tensions, we must ask what it means for us in a world of tensions today.
Behold, a virgin shall be with child, and shall bring forth a son, and they shall call his name Emmanuel, which being interpreted is, God with us.
Whatever tensions Christmas might bring for you personally - whatever the worries or the struggles or the stresses - the Christmas story is one of comfort and joy: He will be called Emmanuel, which means God with us.
Not God over us.
Not God judging us.
Not God condemning us.
God with us.
God with me and with you.
God here and now.
Just as we are.
With all of our tensions and all of our fears, the God of hope is with us and shall be forever. That's the story of Christmas.
Annual survey
Parents and carers are reminded to complete the annual survey to share their views with the school in a way that shapes our thinking and planning. The deadline for completion is 12 January 2025.
Emergency support
If you find yourself struggling financially over the Christmas period, please contact me directly here. The school charity, Puffins, can provide supermarket vouchers to assist with household purchases.
Christmas coping
If Christmas is a difficult time of year for you or somebody you know, you will find guidance on how to cope (especially with your emotional health and wellbeing) here.
A prayer of comfort and joy
Christ, for whom there was no room in the inn,
give courage to all who are homeless.
Christ, who fled into Egypt,
give comfort to all who are displaced.
Christ, who fasted in the desert,
give relief to all who are hungry or struggling.
Christ, who hung in agony on the cross,
give strength to all who suffer, in body or in mind.
Emmanuel - God with us - make us one in heart and mind
to serve you with joy for ever.
Amen.
We welcome pupils back to the school on Tuesday 7 January 2025.
With every blessing this Christmastide,
Canon I Loynd, Headteacher
