Headteacher's Newsletter

Friday 19^th December 2025

Dear Parents and Carers,

As we come to the end of this term, I would like to thank our whole school community for your hard work, care and continued support. This has been a highly successful term and that success is down to the collective dedication of everyone involved. Schools do not thrive by accident; they thrive because people show up, step up and care deeply. You have all done exactly that.

This week, Year 4 treated us to the most wonderful Nativity performance. I was genuinely amazed by all they achieved: learning lines and songs; mastering costumes and performing with such confidence and joy. The acting was outstanding and the enthusiasm was infectious. Huge congratulations to the children, who were rightly proud of themselves and sincere thanks to the Year 4 team, whose hard work, patience and high expectations made it all possible.

We ended the term beautifully with a Mass held in school, kindly led by Father Malachy from The Parish of The Holy Family in Sanderstead. It was a calm, prayerful and fitting way to pause, reflect and give thanks as we prepare for Christmas.

As we look ahead to this coming Sunday’s Gospel, we are reminded of the birth of Jesus, born of Mary who was betrothed to Joseph, son of David: a story of faith, trust and hope that continues to guide us as a school community.

Thank you all once again for everything you do. I wish you a restful and joyful Christmas break.

Dates for your Diary

Tuesday 6^th January 2026 – Return to School

Thank You, Mr Pinnock

I would like to offer my sincere thanks to Mr Pinnock for his hard work and commitment while teaching Year 6 this term. His dedication to settling the children into the expectations of Year 6 and his consistent support of the Year 6 team have been greatly appreciated. He has ensured a strong and positive start to an important year for the pupils and we are very grateful for the care and professionalism he has shown.

From January, 6P will be taught by Ms Mighty, who brings a wealth of Year 6 experience and will be teaching the class for the remainder of the school year. We very much look forward to welcoming her to the school and to the positive impact she will have on the children and the team.

Disco Fundraiser

We are delighted to share that the tuck shops at the discos raised £240.46. This fantastic total will be donated directly to CAFOD, supporting vital work for communities most in need.

Thank you to all parents and carers for your generosity and support. Your charitable contributions truly make a difference and we are proud that these funds will be going to such a worthwhile cause.

With sincere thanks for your continued support.

A Personal Thank You

As I reflect on this term, I want to offer my heartfelt thanks to all our parents, children and staff for the overwhelming support you have shown me in my role. I could not have done this without you. Your kindness, encouragement and trust have meant more than I can adequately put into words.

To our children, you are the reason we do what we do. You bring joy, purpose and energy to every day and you make our school a truly special place to be. To our parents, thank you for your continued support, partnership and belief in our school. To our staff, your dedication, professionalism and care for our pupils is exceptional and never goes unnoticed.

You make every single day special and I feel incredibly privileged to be serving St Mary’s Junior School.

Wishing you all a Merry Christmas & a Wonderful New Year.

Yours faithfully,

Sarah Fizul

Acting Headteacher